Diabetes is a health risk that affects millions of adults worldwide. In fact, diabetes is one of the six leading causes of death in North America. While it is a condition that poses serious consequences, diabetes can be effectively controlled through medical treatment and positive lifestyle choices.

There are actually three types of diabetes that affect adults. Type I diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a condition present at birth. Type II diabetes develops with age. The third type, gestational diabetes, occurs during pregnancy. Many of the symptoms are similar throughout the three types of diabetes, however each is unique in the onset and development.

What Is Adult Type II Diabetes?

Adult type II diabetes is almost always associated with obesity, although the actual cause of the disease is not clear. In adult type II diabetes, insulin loses its effectiveness with age. As a result, sugars begin to build up within the blood. In the medical profession, this condition is known as "insulin resistance". When this occurs, usually in the adult years, the person is said to suffer from Type II diabetes.

Adult type II diabetes is an extremely common occurrence with our generation. It's estimated that one in every ninety adults suffer from type II diabetes. Historically, the condition would develop in older adults, but it has been observed that there is a trend toward diagnosis at a younger age.

What Is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and allows the body to naturally regulate sugars. The failure of this biological regulation is a condition known as insulin resistance. This type of diabetes is also known as "beta cell failure". Some of the most common symptoms are as follows:

* A sudden and noticeable rise in blood glucose levels.

* Fat levels in the blood will also rise. This condition makes the arteries susceptible to clogging and can result in serious heart conditions.

* A steady increase in blood pressure levels will steadily increase.

* Gout, a condition of acute joint pain, may occur.

Symptoms Of Adult Type II Diabetes

The following symptoms can indicate a presence of adult type II diabetes, but may also be common to the other types of the disease:

* Sensations of extreme thirst

* Need to urinate frequently

* Chronic fatigue and tiredness

* Sudden weight loss, although not always pronounced

* Itchiness around the genitalia, caused by yeast infections common to diabetics

* Recurring skin infections and irritations

Life with Adult Type II Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with adult type II diabetes, there are steps that you can take to make your life as comfortable and normal as possible:

* First and foremost, you'll need to alter your diet. Work with your doctor to determine a dietary plan that will keep your glucose levels in check.

* Boost your fiber intake, and eliminate as many fats as possible

* Learn to perform regular blood glucose level checks. Depending on your needs, you may also require insulin injections. Be diligent in carrying out these important tasks.

* Keep your doctor's number within reach. In case of any emergency, you can call immediately ask for expert advice and get the medical help you need.

If you are one of the millions of people affected by adult type II diabetes, find out more about the disease and the treatments. Knowledge is a very powerful way to battle the disease, so take the time to learn all you can, and build a strong defense for the sake of your good health.