Can You Die From Diabetes - Is Diabetes Contagious?

Diabetes is one of the most misunderstood conditions that exist. With a better understanding of what diabetes is, we can throw some of these misunderstandings out the window.

First of all, diabetes is a chronic condition, meaning you have it for the rest of your life once you are diagnosed. It is caused by not enough insulin produced, or there can be plenty of insulin but the body just does not recognize it and is therefore resistant to it.

There are two types of diabetes:

Type 1 - Mostly develops in young people.Type 2 - Is a disease of late onset usually after 40 years of age, and is the most commonly found.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells in the pancreas, and aids in regulating blood glucose by changing glucose into energy, to be used for fuel by the cells and muscles of the body. Blood glucose levels begin to rise when there is insufficent amounts of insulin to translate glucose into energy for fuel. The body then looks for fuel elsewhere, usually from fat and muscles, causing unintended weight loss and other complications. Left untreated or undiagnosed, diabetes can can result in cardiovascular disease or even death.

Is Diabetes Contagious?

Absolutely not. Diabetes is a metabolic disease of the body. It is not a condition that can be passed from one individual to another by touching or being in the same room. However, there are some genetic traits to this disease.. If a close family relative has diabetes, your risks for deveoping the disease is higher, but does not necessarily mean that you will get it.

There is a genetic mutation present in those with diabetes. Without this mutation, you can not get diabetes. Alternately, some diseases of the pancreas may cause the person to develop diabetes. If the pancreas is not functioning properly, such as in pancreatic cancer, it most certainly can include the non-production of insulin as well.

What Are My Risks?

If you are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, or have close family members with the disease, you are at risk for development this progressive disease. Certain ethnic groups are more susceptible to diabetes than others and is thought to be related to a mutant gene handed down through the generations from ancestors of long ago.

If you have been feeling more tired than usual, experiencing increased urination, and increased thirst, it is time to consult with your physician to find out what is causing these symptoms. Your doctor will order diagnostic tests to determine their cause. Being diagnosed with diabetes is not the end of the world. It can be easily managed with lifestyle changes, weight control, and management of your blood glucose levels. In addition to this, a registered dietitian can assist you in planning meals that will help with keeping your blood sugar levels within normal range.

by Barb Hicks, RN/LMT