Diabetes treatment focuses on managing blood sugar levels, preventing complications, and maintaining overall health. For type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential, using injections or an insulin pump to regulate blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes management typically begins with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss. If lifestyle modifications are insufficient, oral medications like metformin or sulfonylureas may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.

In some cases, injectable medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin, are necessary. Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly using glucometers or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) helps guide treatment adjustments. Education on carbohydrate counting, meal planning, and recognizing signs of high and low blood sugar is crucial. Comprehensive diabetes care also involves managing blood pressure and cholesterol, regular check-ups, and eye and foot care to prevent complications.

Causes:

• Type 1 Diabetes:
  Autoimmune Reaction: The immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
  Genetic Factors: Certain genes increase the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes.
• Type 2 Diabetes:
  Insulin Resistance: The body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, leading to higher blood glucose levels.
  Pancreatic Dysfunction: Over time, the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels in check.
• Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy: Pregnancy hormones can cause insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
• Monogenic Diabetes: Caused by single gene mutations affecting insulin production or function.

Risk Factors:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Family History, Genetic Markers
• Type 2 Diabetes: Physical Inactivity, Age, Family History, Ethnicity
• Gestational Diabetes: Obesity, History of Gestational Diabetes, Age Being over 25 years old during pregnancy, Having a family history of diabetes.

Treatments:

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates.
  Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, helps control blood sugar levels.
  Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce insulin resistance.
• Medications:
  Insulin Therapy: Necessary for all patients with Type 1 diabetes and some with Type 2 diabetes. Multiple forms, including rapid-acting, long-acting, and intermediate-acting insulins.
  Oral Hypoglycemics: Metformin, sulfonylureas, and other medications to increase insulin sensitivity or stimulate insulin production.