"Am I diabetic? Beware of diabetes in young people!"

 

diabetes in young people

 

 

Diabetes is often recognized as a condition affecting middle-aged and elderly individuals. In fact, approximately 26 percent of people aged 65 or older have diabetes.

However, there has been a recent surge in the number of individuals in their 20s and 30s being diagnosed with the condition. According to a survey conducted by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of diabetic patients in their 30s in 2020 is approaching 120,000. This marks a 25% increase from four years ago, which is significantly higher than the average annual growth rate of 5% for elderly diabetics.

Therefore, it is crucial not to become complacent just because of youth and to be vigilant in monitoring for pre-diabetes symptoms and managing them proactively.

What are the symptoms of pre-diabetes?

 

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Pre-diabetes symptoms include:

1. Frequent urination and increased thirst: Increased urination is a common symptom of diabetes as excess sugar in the blood requires more water, leading to increased thirst.
2. Weight loss and increased hunger: Insulin dysfunction in diabetes prevents glucose from being utilized as energy, resulting in weight loss as the body turns to burning muscle and fat for energy. Constant hunger may also occur due to improper utilization of glucose.
3. Chronic fatigue: Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to profound fatigue, even after adequate rest.
4. Dry skin, itching, and cramps: High blood sugar can cause skin dryness and circulation issues, resulting in itching and muscle cramps.
5. Vision changes: Blurred vision or deteriorating eyesight can indicate elevated blood sugar levels affecting the eyes.

What is causing the rise in diabetes among young people?

 

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The increase in young diabetic patients can be attributed to three main factors:

1. Rising obesity rates: Obesity is a primary contributor to diabetes, so the increase in obesity directly correlates with the rise in diabetic cases.
2. Ignorance of pre-diabetic symptoms: Young individuals may underestimate the risk of diabetes and fail to manage their lifestyle and diet appropriately, leading to undiagnosed or poorly managed conditions.
3. Lifestyle patterns: Busy social lives often lead to poor dietary choices and irregular eating habits among young adults, contributing to the rise in diabetes cases.

The adverse effects of diabetes on young individuals:

Diabetes in young people poses more severe health risks compared to older individuals. Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels increases the likelihood of complications and heightens risks such as miscarriage and premature birth in women of childbearing age. Additionally, pancreatic function deteriorates faster in younger individuals, worsening insulin secretion over time.

 

Managing hyperglycemia and early diabetes

 

Managing hyperglycemia and early diabetes in young individuals:

Early identification of pre-diabetes symptoms and proactive management of blood sugar levels within the first year of diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of complications. Maintaining a healthy diet, consistent exercise regimen, timely medication intake, and regular blood sugar monitoring are essential for effective management. Young diabetic patients can engage in higher intensity exercises, which can yield significant treatment benefits. Utilizing blood sugar management apps for monitoring can also aid in managing the condition effectively.

If you've noticed any unusual changes in your body recently, it's essential not to ignore them and to promptly address any pre-diabetes symptoms through wise management strategies. Diabetes is a condition that affects individuals of all ages, and proactive self-care is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.