Mark & Associates, P.C. Attorneys At Law

Diabetes

Diabetes cases are increasing each year, with thousands of people dying from complications of the disease.  Serious complications include blindness, heart disease and stroke.  Diabetes patients suffer from either an inability to create insulin or a decreased sensitivity to insulin that is produced.  Insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas which, when secreted into the bloodstream, pushes glucose out of the blood and into the body’s cells to be used for energy. When food is consumed, insulin is secreted from the pancreas in order to keep blood sugar stable.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

In type 1 diabetes, glucose levels become too high because the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Type 1 diabetics take insulin intravenously.

Type 2 Diabetes

With type 2 diabetes, while the pancreas is able to manufacture insulin, the body is resistant or insensitive to it or the amount of insulin produced is not enough. As a result, glucose builds up in the blood, which can cause the cells of the body to lack energy and also cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, heart and nerves.  In diabetic and prediabetic people, diet and exercise can help manage blood glucose levels. Foods which require a great deal of insulin to process should be avoided.  An exercise regimen is recommended, as well as keeping weight down. 

Medical Treatment of Diabetes

There are several groups of diabetes medications:

• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
• Biguanides
• Meglitinides
• Sulfonylureas
• Thiazolidinediones

Avandia (rosiglitazone) belongs to the class thiazolidinediones; these drugs increase the effect of insulin and reduce the liver’s glucose production. Drugs in this class can cause liver problems, and Avandia has been linked with high risk of heart attack and death from cardiovascular problems.