Endocrinology / Diabetes
The Endocrine glands are numerous "ductless glands" which secrete specific chemicals called hormones, which are required for the smooth functioning of the body. Some of these glands are Thyroid gland, The Adrenal Glands, The Pituitary Gland, The Ovaries, The Testes and The Pancreas.
The Department of Endocrinology at Welcare Hospital, Dubai deals with disorders of these vital organs. The commonest Endocrine problem is "Diabetes" which affects almost 30% of the population of the UAE.
The Endocrine Glands can either secrete an excess of a particular hormone or be deficient in that particular hormone and it is then described as "Hyper" or "Hypo" conditions respectively. As for example "Hypothyroidism" / "Hyperthyroidism". Endocrinology also deals with the problems of obesity, increased hair growth and osteoporosis.
What is Diabetes Mellitus?
Diabetes is a condition in which there is excessive sugar in the blood. This is due to a partial or complete lack of insulin in our body. Insulin is an important hormone produced in our body by the pancreas and is required for the utilization of sugar in the blood.
Some patients may have abnormal action of insulin despite normal or high insulin level in body.
Are there different types of Diabetes?
Broadly there are two types of Diabetes Mellitus:
Type 1 - where there is a total lack of insulin. This occurs mostly in the younger age group and requires insulin injections for the treatment.
Type 2 - where there is a partial lack of insulin. This generally occurs in the older age group. This can be treated with diet or tablets but may require insulin.
What are the Symptoms?
Most Diabetics may not have any symptoms in the beginning, however there may be increased thirst and appetite, passing excessive amount of urine, delay in wound healing and weight loss.
How does one detect diabetes?
This can be detected by checking the sugar level in the blood.
What are the Treatment options?
The amount of total calorie intake should be restricted in diabetic patients
Diet - in general, the diet should be low in refined carbohydrates e.g. sugar, sweets, chocolates, etc. However, this should be planned in association with your doctor.
Oral Hypoglycaemic Tablets - these are useful in Type II diabetes and needs to be monitored by your doctor
Insulin injections - this treatment is required in Type I diabetes and may be required for Type II diabetes and during pregnancy.
What are the risks of uncontrolled Diabetes?
The long term complications of the diabetes in general are directly related to be blood sugar level, which is to say that if one maintains an ideal blood sugar level, one can postpone the onset of complications.
What are the complications of diabetes?
Diabetes can affect most of the organs of the body. Generally, it tends to affect the eyes, kidneys, blood vessels, heart and the nervous system.
Effect on the eyes: In the eyes Diabetes can manifest with onset of Cataract and can cause extensive damage to the retina and possibly cause blindness in both types of Diabetes. All diabetics therefore should have their eyes examined by an Ophthalmologist periodically. It predisposes to increased risk of heart attacks and if not taken care of, may cause kidney failure.
Where to get help?
Our Endocrinologist is available to discuss your case providing necessary treatment and advice. The hospital dietitian and diabetes educator are available to prepare diet plans to suit individual needs