Diabetes is a serious health condition caused by high blood glucose. Glucose is an enzyme that is an important source of energy for cells, tissues, and muscles. It is also essential for brain health. However, too much glucose will have adverse effects on one’s health. According to the American Diabetes Association, there is no cure for diabetes, but it can be controlled and managed by proper diet, exercise, and medication when necessary.
Diabetes comes in various forms, such as, prediabetes, type I diabetes, type II diabetes, and gestational diabetes. A diagnosis can be made by a healthcare professional at any primary medical care center or urgent care clinic. One of the most common treatments for diabetes is to administer insulin either by an injection or through a computerized pump. An inhaled rapid acting insulin is also available. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas that regulates the body’s glucose levels. For people diagnosed with diabetes, insulin therapy replaces or regulates insulin levels within desired limits.
A new study conducted by medical researchers at the University of Leicester in England, found that a pill form of the injectable diabetes medication, Semaglutide, can significantly improve the health of people diagnosed with type II diabetes. Semaglutide taken orally once a day was also found to aid weight loss. Excess weight has been found to be one of the risk factors for developing diabetes. While still in its trial phase and not yet ready for public use, this new form of insulin medication will be a welcomed relief for diabetes sufferers who struggle with painful daily injections.
The American Diabetes Association lists some of the common symptoms of diabetes as: frequent urination, extreme thirst, feeling very hungry even when full, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing cuts and bruises, unexplained weight loss, and tingling pain or numbness in the hands or feet. However, experts warn that some diabetics may not always experience symptoms and that a visit to one’s primary medical care center or urgent care clinic is key to receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment.