November is National Diabetes Month

According to the CDC, 11.3% of Americans are living with diabetes. Join us this November as we recognize National Diabetes Month. In this blog, we will enhance the understanding of diabetes, emphasizing the importance of prevention and management approaches and highlighting the vital role of physical therapy in diabetes care and management.

A Closer Look at Diabetes

Diabetes is a medical condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels correctly. It often complicates other health conditions, adding to disease and disability rates. The prevalence of diabetes has risen significantly over the last two decades, with the number of people diagnosed doubling over the past 20 years. The growing occurrence of diabetes can be linked to increasing obesity rates and unhealthy lifestyles, including poor diet and lack of exercise.

Living with diabetes means dealing with various complications beyond just managing blood sugar levels. These complications include heart and blood vessel problems, kidney issues known as nephropathy, nerve damage referred to as neuropathy, and eye problems that can lead to vision loss known as retinopathy. People with diabetes may also face skin and foot problems, as well as mental health challenges. All of these complications can significantly lower quality of life.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. This lack of insulin prevents glucose from entering the cells for energy, causing high blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes is more common in children and adolescents.

People with Type 1 diabetes often experience symptoms suddenly, such as intense thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, mood swings, and blurred vision. Some of the key risk factors for developing Type 1 diabetes include a family history of the disease, exposure to specific viruses, and the presence of related autoantibodies.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, making up about 95% of all cases. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin and is most commonly diagnosed in adulthood. Although, children and teenagers can also develop Type 2 diabetes.

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes are similar to Type 1, including increased thirst and frequent urination, but they are usually less noticeable. This can make Type 2 diabetes harder to diagnose quickly. Risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes include being overweight, being physically inactive, getting older, having a family history of diabetes, belonging to certain ethnic groups, and having high blood pressure.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs specifically during pregnancy, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. On average, it affects approximately 2% to 10% of pregnancies annually in the United States. Several factors increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. These include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or being an older expectant mother.

Gestational diabetes increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth and is typically only diagnosed during routine prenatal check-ups. Gestational diagnosis can also increase the likelihood of the mother and child developing Type 2 diabetes in the future.

Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that are above normal but not yet high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes. The transition from prediabetes to Type 2 diabetes depends on individual factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and adherence to management strategies like diet and exercise. On average, research indicates that approximately 15% to 30% of individuals with prediabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within five years. However, effective interventions such as lifestyle changes can prevent or significantly delay this progression.

Prediabetes typically goes unnoticed because it rarely presents noticeable symptoms. Therefore, early detection through regular health check-ups and assessments is crucial. Several factors contribute to the risk of developing prediabetes, including excess weight, age, family history, and physical inactivity. Certain ethnic backgrounds, such as African American, Hispanic/Latino, and specific Asian American groups, are also at a higher risk.

Diabetes Prevention Strategies

Preventing diabetes, particularly Type 2, revolves around making crucial lifestyle modifications that positively influence overall health and blood glucose levels. This is essential not only for individuals with risk factors like family history and obesity but also for the general population, given the widespread prevalence of the disease.

• Balanced Diet: Adopt a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients while minimizing the consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-sugar snacks.
• Regular Physical Activity: Engage in consistent physical activities to aid in weight management, improve insulin sensitivity, and support overall cardiovascular health.
• Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups and blood glucose screenings, especially if you have prediabetes or other risk factors. Early detection of elevated blood glucose levels can reduce the risk of progression to Type 2 diabetes.
• Stress Management: Control stress through mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga. Stress can adversely affect blood glucose levels, making stress-relief activities essential.
• Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Reduce alcohol consumption, as it can lead to weight gain and affect blood sugar levels. Additionally, if you smoke, take steps to quit, as smoking increases the risk of various health complications, including diabetes.
• Prioritize Quality Sleep: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep each night to maintain a healthy metabolism and hormone regulation, which can help prevent weight gain and insulin resistance.

The Significance of Physical Therapy in Diabetes Management

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in effectively managing diabetes and supports the maintenance of a lifestyle critical for handling this condition.

• Exercise and Diabetes: Physical therapists design personalized exercise plans that are indispensable for effectively managing blood sugar levels. These plans are tailored to individual needs, ensuring an optimal approach to diabetes management.
• Weight Management: Successful prevention and management of type 2 diabetes heavily rely on weight control. Physical therapists offer invaluable guidance, helping individuals incorporate sustainable exercise routines that contribute to maintaining a healthy weight.
• Enhancing Flexibility and Mobility: Diabetes often leads to reduced mobility. Physical therapy interventions work to improve flexibility, ultimately enhancing one’s quality of life and facilitating the ease of daily activities.
• Preventing and Managing Complications: Physical therapists prescribe targeted exercises to enhance circulation and mitigate the risk of complications, such as peripheral neuropathy, frequently associated with diabetes.

Incorporating physical therapy into diabetes management significantly enhances blood sugar control and overall quality of life. It empowers individuals with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of diabetes confidently and effectively.

Diabetes Managements with Breakthru Physical Therapy

Effectively managing diabetes requires constant care and a deep understanding. It involves a mix of awareness, lifestyle changes, and utilizing key health services like physical therapy to manage life with diabetes successfully.

This November, let’s take the chance to enhance our knowledge of diabetes, share information, and promote a sense of community health and wellness while dealing with this challenging condition. Together, we can work towards a healthier future and reduce the effects of diabetes.