Diabetes: Causes, symptoms, and tips to control blood sugar levels

Diabetes is a common health condition that causes blood sugar (glucose) levels to rise too high, a state known as hyperglycaemia. Learn its causes, symptoms, and effective ways to manage it.

Managing diabetes is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing complications. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes or are supporting a loved one, this guide offers expert advice to help you live well with this condition. As a leading GP service in NZ, Tend Health provides comprehensive support with diabetes testing, diagnosis, and management.

What is diabetes?

Also known as: Mate Huka

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Prolonged high glucose levels can lead to damage across multiple body systems, including the heart, eyes, blood vessels, nerves, kidneys, and feet. This significantly increases the risk of severe health issues such as strokes, heart attacks, and blindness. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a key role in regulating glucose levels.

Types of diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and type 2.

Fortunately, a simple blood test can determine if you have diabetes, allowing for earlier intervention and management.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While the specific environmental triggers are not well understood, the condition can occur at any age. Once type 1 diabetes is triggered, the immune system starts to attack insulin-making cells (known as beta cells) until there are none left. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years, ultimately leaving the body unable to produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes

Approximately 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes, making it very common in New Zealand. Many individuals live with it for years without knowing it. Type 2 diabetes develops gradually when the body becomes resistant to the insulin it produces. Sometimes when this happens, the pancreas becomes exhausted and stops producing as much insulin.

Key risk factors for type 2 diabetes include obesity, smoking, and poor diet and exercise habits. Genetic predisposition also plays a significant role, and some groups are at higher risk:

• Māori, Pasifika, and Indo-Asian males aged 35+
• Māori, Pasifika, and Indo-Asian females aged 45+

Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent in males than females, particularly within these demographic groups.

Pre-existing diabetes

Pre-existing diabetes refers to type 1 or type 2 diabetes diagnosed before pregnancy. By carefully managing blood glucose levels before and during pregnancy, individuals can ensure a safe delivery for their baby.

Gestational diabetes

Diabetes can develop during pregnancy. This is called gestational diabetes, affecting 4-8% of pregnancies. Close monitoring and management are required to safeguard both the parent and the baby. Although gestational diabetes often resolves after childbirth, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

In adults

Often, there are no symptoms for type 1 or 2 diabetes. However, sometimes diabetes can cause:

• Feeling very thirsty
• Peeing a lot, especially at night
• Feeling very tired
• Blurred vision
• Frequent urinary infections, skin infections or thrush
• Cuts and grazes healing slowly

In children

• The symptoms and treatment for type 1 diabetes in children is the same as for adults
• Most children who have diabetes will have type 1
• Type 2 diabetes is uncommon in children, but it can develop with obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle

How long does diabetes last?

Type 1 diabetes

Once diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, the condition is lifelong. While there is no cure, it can be managed effectively with insulin therapy, regular blood sugar monitoring, and a healthy lifestyle. Early and consistent management helps to prevent complications and ensures a better quality of life.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes has no known cure, but it can often be controlled and, in some cases, even reversed. For many people, adopting a diabetes-healthy lifestyle—focusing on weight loss, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity—can lower blood sugar levels to a healthy range. This level of control may reduce or eliminate the need for medication. However, maintaining these changes is essential, as reverting to unhealthy habits can cause blood sugar levels to rise again.

Early diagnosis and proactive management are key to living well with diabetes, regardless of the type.

Type 1 diabetes

• Feeling very thirstyIndividuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections, as their bodies can no longer produce insulin naturally.
  • ‍You can order repeat prescriptions online with Tend.
• Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly and managing carbohydrate intake are essential for maintaining safe levels.
• A healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a normal body weight are also crucial for effective management.
• Treatment for type 1 diabetes in children is the same as for adults.

Type 2 diabetes

• Type 2 diabetes can be improved, and sometimes even reversed, with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a healthy diet and exercise.
• Medication is usually required if lifestyle changes alone aren’t successful.
• Treated with oral medications like Metformin to lower blood glucose levels. Insulin injections may be required for more severe cases.
• High blood pressure and cholesterol impact type 2 diabetes, so quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with nutrition and exercise
  can help to manage this. These will also benefit heart health.

Proactive prevention

Currently, there is no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes. While prevention isn’t possible, early diagnosis and effective management can help reduce the risk of complications. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is largely preventable, especially for individuals at risk of developing the condition. Lifestyle changes are the most effective means of prevention, particularly for those diagnosed with pre-diabetes.

Pre-diabetes

Pre-diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet in the range for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. It’s a critical stage that offers an opportunity to prevent the progression to full-blown diabetes. In New Zealand, pre-diabetes affects 1 in 4 individuals over the age of 15, making it a significant public health concern.

The good news is that pre-diabetes can often be reversed with proactive measures:

1. Weight loss: Reducing body weight, even by a small percentage, can significantly improve blood sugar regulation.
2. Healthy diet: A diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, helps stabilise glucose levels. Avoiding high-sugar and high-fat processed foods is particularly important.
3. Frequent exercise: Regular physical activity improves the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, lowers blood sugar levels, and supports overall health.

Addressing pre-diabetes early can not only prevent type 2 diabetes but also reduce the risk of associated complications such as heart disease and stroke.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays a vital role in both the prevention and management of diabetes. Key dietary strategies include:

• Low-fat, low-sugar foods: Helps control weight and prevents blood sugar spikes.
• High-fibre diet: Foods like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains improve digestion and slow glucose absorption.
• Minimal processed foods: Fresh, unprocessed foods are less likely to contain hidden sugars and unhealthy fats.

A balanced diet supports overall health and ensures the body gets the nutrients it needs to function effectively. Adopting these habits not only aids in diabetes management but also promotes long-term well-being.

By taking these proactive steps, individuals can greatly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes or mitigate the impact of pre-diabetes.

Should I see a doctor?

If you or your child begin showing symptoms of diabetes, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly. Symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue should not be ignored. Testing for diabetes is straightforward and involves a simple blood test. Early diagnosis plays a significant role in managing the condition effectively. Even if diabetes is ruled out, addressing potential symptoms early ensures better overall health outcomes.

You are not alone if you have diabetes. It’s a common condition that affects many people, and with the right support, it’s entirely manageable. Numerous support networks are available, from online communities to local diabetes groups, where you can connect with others who understand your journey. At Tend Health, our compassionate and experienced doctors are here to provide personalised care and guidance.

Whether you need help with testing, management, or just someone to talk to about your concerns, we’re with you every step of the way. Remember, with the right care and community, living well with diabetes is possible.

Managing diabetes effectively requires making proactive lifestyle changes. Whether it’s type 1 or type 2 diabetes, early diagnosis and consistent management can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve quality of life. From adopting a diabetes-healthy lifestyle to regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, small, consistent steps can make a big difference.

Tend enrolled patients can enjoy free appointments with a Tend Health Coach for a Healthy Lifestyle Consultation.

You can book this the Tend app under Services > Mental Wellness > Healthy Lifestyle Consultation.

At Tend Health, our experienced healthcare professionals can help with diabetes testing, diagnosis, and ongoing management tailored to your needs. You can visit us in person or make the most of our online doctor services to access expert care wherever you are.

Let us help you take control of your health and navigate your diabetes journey with confidence. Book an appointment today.

• Once a patient develops Type 1 diabetes, they have it for life and it can be treated
• There is no known cure for type 2 diabetes. But it can be controlled. And in some cases, it can be reversed. For some people, a diabetes-healthy lifestyle or losing weight is enough to control their blood sugar levels.