Diabetes Treatment and Diagnosis

Yes, diabetes can be genetic, but both hereditary and lifestyle factors play a role in its development. Type 2 diabetes has a strong genetic link, with the risk increasing if multiple family members have the condition. Studies of twins suggest genetics significantly influence Type 2 diabetes, and race can also be a factor. However, lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, are major contributors to its development. Type 1 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including viral infections. Unlike Type 2, most people with Type 1 diabetes do not have a family history of the disease. Monogenic diabetes, a rare form, results from a mutation in a single gene. In most cases, the gene is inherited from one or both parents. While genetics can increase the risk of diabetes, lifestyle modifications can often help prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests that measure blood sugar (glucose) levels. The most common tests include:

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS): Measures blood glucose after fasting for at least 8 hours. A result of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• A1C Test (Glycated Hemoglobin): Provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. A result of 6.5% or higher confirms diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and 2 hours after drinking a glucose solution. A reading of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Random Blood Sugar Test: A reading of 200 mg/dL or higher at any time, regardless of when you last ate, suggests diabetes.

For Type 1 diabetes, doctors may also check for autoantibodies, which indicate an immune system attack on insulin-producing cells. Gestational diabetes is diagnosed with a glucose challenge test during pregnancy.

Note: If results are borderline, additional testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis.

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Common signs include:

• Increased thirst and dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
• Slow-healing sores or cuts
• Frequent skin infections
• Frequent vaginal infections

While some risk factors for Type 2 diabetes, like genetics, age, and race, are out of your control, there are still plenty of ways to reduce your risk. By making healthy lifestyle choices and staying on top of regular check-ups, you can take charge of your health and lower your chances of developing diabetes. Here are some key steps to consider:

• Eating a healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet
• Staying physically active with at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing stress
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Getting enough sleep (typically 7 to 9 hours per night)
• Quitting smoking
• Following your healthcare provider’s advice on medication 

If you have diabetes, it’s important to limit foods that cause blood sugar spikes. Sugary drinks like soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices can lead to rapid glucose increases, while highly processed carbs—such as white bread, pasta, and pastries—break down quickly into sugar, making blood sugar harder to control. Fried foods like French fries and fast food are not only high in unhealthy fats but can also contribute to insulin resistance. Many packaged foods, including breakfast cereals, granola bars, and canned soups, contain hidden sugars and refined carbs that can impact glucose levels. Even seemingly healthy options like flavored yogurts, dried fruits, and smoothies often have more sugar than expected. Instead, focusing on whole, fiber-rich foods can help keep blood sugar stable and support overall health.}

Note: If you are experiencing abnormal diabetes symptoms, please visit our urgent care service clinics.