How do you get diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes varies depending on the type of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This leads to a deficiency of insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels. The exact cause of the autoimmune disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics and lifestyle. The main factor is the body's inability to effectively use insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. As the body becomes resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure, and not getting enough physical activity.

Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, is caused by the hormonal changes of pregnancy that make it difficult for the body to produce enough insulin to keep up with the increased needs of the pregnancy.

Other types of diabetes, such as monogenic diabetes, cystic fibrosis-related diabetes, and diabetes caused by specific genetic syndromes, surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses, have specific causes.

It is important to note that diabetes is a complex disease and that the exact cause can vary from person to person. In most cases, it is a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.


Begin Your Journey to Wellness with Patients Medical

Our job at Patients Medical is to listen, to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for women and men to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.

To make an appointment with one of our physicians, please call us at 1-212-794-8800. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

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