Diabetes & Hypertension

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Diabetes & Hypertension

Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (sugar). This condition arises when the body either does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy. This is the most common form of diabetes and typically develops in adulthood. In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and genetics. Management involves lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes & Hypertension

  • Fatigue
  • Blurred Vision
  • Frequent Infections
  • Headaches
  • Chest Pain
  • Nosebleeds
  • Dry Skin and Itching
  • Blood in Urine
  • Increased Thirst and Dry Mouth

Hypertension is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded with two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats). Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension can result from various factors, including genetics, age, obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive salt intake, and chronic kidney disease. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it may not cause noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.