b'DiabetesChapterDiabetes is a chronic condition in which the levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood are too high. Blood glucose levels are normally regulated by the hormone insulin, which is made by the pancreas. Diabetes occurs when there is a problem with this hormone and how it works in the body. The body uses glucose as its main source of energy. Glucose comes from foods that contain carbohydrates, such as potatoes, bread, pasta, rice, fruit and milk. After food is digested, the glucose is released and absorbed into the bloodstream.The glucose in the bloodstream needs to move into body tissues so that cells can use it for energy. Excess glucose is also stored in the liver, or converted to fat and stored in other body tissues.Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas, which is a gland located just below the stomach. Insulin opens the doors (the glucose channels) that let glucose move from the blood into the body cells. It also allows glucose to be stored in muscle, the liver and other tissues. This is part of a process known as glucose metabolism.In diabetes, either the pancreas cannot make insulin (type 1 diabetes), or the cells do not respond to the insulin properly (insulin resistance) and the pancreas produces inadequate insulin for the bodys increased needs (type 2 diabetes).If the insulin cannot do its job, the glucose channels cannot open properly. Glucose builds up in the blood instead of getting into cells for energy. High blood glucose levels cause the health problems linked to diabetes, often referred to as complications.Type 1 diabetesType 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune destruction of insulin-making cells in the pancreas, which means insulin is no longer made. Often develops in childhood, and requires lifelong treatment with insulin. There is no cure, but type 1 diabetes can be successfully managed with insulin injections, nutrition and exerciseType 2 diabetesType 2 diabetes is sometimes described as a lifestyle disease because it is more common in people who do not do enough physical activity, and who are overweight or obese. It is strongly associated with high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and an apple body shape, where excess weight is carried around the waist.It is the most common form of diabetes and affects 85 to 90 per cent of all people with diabetes.It usually develops in adults over the age of 45, but is now being seen in younger people. It requires as treatment a combination of diet, exercise, medication, and sometimes insulin.Diabetes can also occur as a consequence of another disease or as a side effect of medication.198 Medical Emergencies'