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.

Adult Type II Diabetes

One form of the disease, known as adult type II diabetes, is almost always associated with obesity. The actual cause of the disease is not clear. Adult type II diabetes causes the insulin to lose its effectiveness with age, resulting in a build-up of sugars within the blood. Medical practitioners refer to this condition as "insulin resistance". When this occurs, usually in the adult years, the patient is considered to have type II diabetes.

In our generation, adult type II diabetes is an extremely common occurrence. In fact, it's estimated that one in every ninety adults suffers with type II diabetes. The condition historically developed in older adults, but it has been observed that there is a trend toward diagnosis at a younger age.

Insulin Resistance

The pancreas produces insulin as a way for the body to naturally regulate sugars. When this biological regulation fails, the condition is termed as insulin resistance. This type of diabetes is sometimes called "beta cell failure". Some of the main signs 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.

* Blood pressure levels increase steadily.

* Gout may occur. This is a condition of acute joint pain.

What Are The Common 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:

* Feeling of extreme thirst

* Frequent urges to urinate

* Chronic fatigue and tiredness

* Sudden weight loss, although not always pronounced

* Genital itch, 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, you can take steps to make your life as normal and comfortable as possible:

* Alter your diet. This should be your fist step. Speak with your doctor and work with him or her to determine a dietary plan to 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. You may also need to inject yourself with insulin when required. Be diligent in performing these very important tasks.

* Keep your doctor's number within reach at all times. You need to be able to call for immediate medical help and expert advice, just in case of an emergency arises.

If you are one of the millions of men and women affected with adult type II diabetes, learn as much as you can about the disease and treatment options. Knowledge is a very powerful tool for battling the disease, so take the time to learn all you can and build a strong defense in the fight for your good health.