The history of diabetes is long and intriguing. For the last 2000 years diabetes is known to be a deadly disease with disastrous consequences. A Greek individual named Aretaeus first described the disease in first century AD. The disease was named ‘diabetes’ from the Greek word for ‘siphon’. Eugene J. Leopold has described the diagnosis made by Aretaeus: inability for fluids to remain in the body. The body serves as a channel for the elimination of these fluids. Life is not prolonged for a long period of time. A large amount of flesh is liquefied into urine. Physicians in earlier times knew the symptoms of diabetes but were unable to effectively treat it. Arataeus prescribed oil from roses, dates, raw quinces, and gruel. 17th century doctors prescribed viper’s flesh, red corral, almonds, and fresh flowers of nettles. A London physician, named Dr Thomas Willis, determined if his patients had diabetes by testing the urine samples. This happened during the  [...]

When diabetes is discovered in pregnant women it is referred to as type 2 gestational diabetes. This type of diabetes most commonly occurs late in the second trimester or even as far as the third trimester and usually lasts until the birth of the baby at which time it generally disappears. Although this type of diabetes does tend to go away it does increase the chances of developing type 2 diabetes at a later time. Although there are usually few if any symptoms of this type of diabetes it is strongly suggested that any woman who is pregnant be tested for diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. The reason for this is the possible risks to the baby which include increased birth weight, trauma at birth and jaundice. By monitoring and controlling the levels of blood sugar a woman can greatly reduce the risks of these problems occurring. During the course of a healthy pregnancy a woman is expected to gain weight and her hormones will go through changes. Although  [...]

It is of supreme importance to know and comprehend the acceptable blood glucose level. This is regardless of whether you have diabetes or not. Diabetics, who wish to manage the disease effectively, need to know the acceptable blood glucose level. There are many tests available to let you know your blood sugar levels. As a diabetic you need to collect information on each test and prepare your own chart of the acceptable blood glucose level. This leads to effective management of the disease. When you go in for a blood glucose test, you need to fast for a minimum of eight hours. Your blood glucose level at this stage needs to be between 70 and 100 mg/dl. This test is also known as normal fasting glucose. If your glucose level is within the range 100-125 mg/dl, you can consider yourself as a pre-diabetic. If it exceeds 125 mg/dl, you are diabetic. Consult your physician if you are not satisfied with the result. You may then repeat the test for a  [...]

Can you die from diabetes? The answer to this question is a resounding yes. However, let us refrain from death here as it can happen due to anything. With proper treatment, diabetes can be properly managed. Most diabetics have lived long and healthy lives by taking proper care of themselves. Also, there is no reason to believe that you will die before people not having diabetes. So the question ‘Can you die from diabetes?’ is a superfluous one. Today, medicine has made rapid strides and advances. Internet is a source of help and information. Most medications to deal with high blood sugar are very effective. In addition, glucose meters are available that help you monitor your blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause two main dangers: hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia Treatment of diabetes mainly involves maintaining the correct blood sugar levels. Some diabetics  [...]