Episode Overview:
Welcome back to The DocTalk Podcast! In this episode, we’re tackling a condition that affects millions of Canadians: Diabetes. We discuss what diabetes is, risk factors, prevention strategies, complications, and how to manage it effectively. This episode is inspired by a listener question about reducing the risk of diabetes and its complications.
Listener Question:
“Hey docs, Diabetes runs in my family, and I’ve already seen one of my parents need hospital visits for complications of diabetes. What can I do to lower the risk of diabetes and its complications?”
What is Diabetes?
- Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar remains persistently high due to either a lack of insulin (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2).
- Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, typically diagnosed at a younger age.
- Type 2 Diabetes: More common in adolescents and adults, due to insulin resistance and associated with lifestyle and genetic factors.
How Common is Diabetes?
- 1 in 3 Canadians are affected by diabetes or prediabetes.
- 3.5 million Canadians have a diabetes diagnosis, and the number is expected to rise.
- Type 1 diabetes accounts for 10% of cases, while Type 2 diabetes makes up 90% of cases.
Early Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes:
- Increased thirst & urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fruity-smelling breath (sign of Diabetic Ketoacidosis - DKA)
Type 2 Diabetes is often diagnosed through routine screening but can have symptoms of fatigue, frequent urination, thirst, vision change and numbness and tingling in hands and erectile dysfunction.
Complications of Diabetes
- Heart disease & stroke: 2-4 times more likely in people with diabetes.
- Kidney disease: Chronic high blood sugar can lead to kidney damage.
- Nerve damage & foot ulcers: Loss of sensation increases risk of infections and amputations.
- Eye damage (retinopathy): Regular eye exams are crucial.
- Immune system impairment: Increased risk of infections, poor wound healing.
Managing Diabetes
- Diabetes education teams: Work with healthcare professionals for lifestyle and medication management.
- Blood sugar monitoring: Regular A1c testing and routine bloodwork.
- Medications: Options include Metformin, Insulin, SGLT2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 agonists (like Ozempic, originally a diabetes medication but now known for weight management).
Our Prescription for You:
- Know your risk, especially if you have a family history.
- Prioritize healthy diet and exercise to lower your risk.
- Consider early testing if you have additional risk factors.
- Work with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage your health.
For more information, visit diabetes.ca for additional resources and support.
Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://checkout51.app.link/e/K3yAUdFCUKb
Disclaimer:
The DocTalk Podcast is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
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