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PharmEasy Blog

Does COVID-19 Increase The Risk Of Developing Diabetes?

With so many resources going into understanding COVID-19, it seems like every day we get new surprising information about its effects on us. Diabetes after COVID-19 is the latest complication that may soon be getting a lot of scrutiny by the medical community. The two conditions are not directly related: one is a disease caused by a virus and the other is a metabolic disease.

There isn’t a clear answer yet but hospitals and doctors are doing their best to check if there is indeed a link between COVID-19 and increased diabetes cases. A few studies suggest that between 5% to 14.4% of COVID-19 patients went on to also develop diabetes later on. Is it possible that you have a higher risk of diabetes after COVID-19 recovery? The answer is a bit complicated so let’s dive right in: 

Diabetics can surely be vaccinated with Covid 19 vaccine, it is not contraindicated and can in fact be useful to prevent complications as diabetics are more vulnerable to developing severe illness post covid.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Diabetes vs COVID-19 

Type I diabetes is when the pancreas produces very little or no insulin for the body to use. So then, what is type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that develops when insulin is being produced but is not being used by the body (also called insulin resistance). Insulin is required by the body to metabolise glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. When insulin is absent or unused then the levels of sugar in the blood keeps rising since it has nowhere to go.

Caused by the Coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. The infection can present as mild with minor flu or cold-like symptoms (or no symptoms). It is easily spread through contact with an infected person or through air droplets in the environment. In some people (especially elders and those with poor immunity) it can lead to severe illness (including high fever, respiratory distress and even death ). 

These two things do not seem similar in any way, so why are some people developing diabetes after COVID-19?

Convincing evidence indicates that viruses are associated with T1D development and progression. During the COVID-19 pandemic, cases of hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and new diabetes increased, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 may be a trigger for or unmask T1D.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

What Could Be Causing Diabetes After COVID-19 Recovery?

1. Diagnosis of the undiagnosed Pre-existing Diabetes- Type II diabetes is attributed to genetic factors, obesity, lack of physical activity, lack of balanced nutrition and lifestyle habits like smoking. Some earlier statistics indicate that most people who are prediabetic and a lot of those who are diabetic do not know they have the condition yet.  

So it is possible that many of the people who are getting diagnosed with diabetes after COVID-19 are simply discovering preexisting conditions. This may be due to better/more frequent testing during the COVID-19 infection or treatment leading to the diagnosis of diabetic conditions that would have otherwise remained hidden. 

This emphasizes the need for us to be completely aware of prediabetes symptoms and signs of diabetes in men and signs of diabetes in women, which can help in early diagnosis, and consequently more effective treatment options.

2. Stress- Stress (psychological and physiological) plays a role in Type II diabetes. The mental and physical stress of undergoing COVID-19 infection, fear of losing loved ones, financial loss, depression, anxiety and a lot more that has happened due to pandemics may lead to a higher risk of developing diabetes after COVID-19 recovery. This may be limited to people who are genetically at risk for Type II diabetes and those who are already prediabetic. 

3. Drug-Induced Diabetes- Life-saving medicines like steroids given during the treatment of COVID-19 can also lead to a spike in blood sugars. This is usually a temporary rise in blood sugars which needs to be managed by oral medicines or insulin injections or can lead to long term diabetes for some patients.

What You Need To Know Now

• It is not understood whether this is a temporary form of diabetes or not. For example, it could be similar to gestational diabetes that disappears after a pregnant woman gives birth.
• It is possible that a lot of these newly discovered diabetes cases were already there and getting hospitalised for COVID-19 simply improved the rate of a diabetes diagnosis.
• Hospitals around the world are working together to build a database and collaborate on this very issue right now. The more information they can gather, the better we can understand whether diabetes after COVID-19 is truly being caused by the infection.
• As of now, there isn’t any conclusion whether COVID-19 or its treatment causes a higher risk of diabetes, the medical community is still trying to figure it out.

What Are The Warning Signs Of Diabetes After COVID-19

Some of these may also be associated with normal recovery, so do not panic if you notice them. But consider running these by your doctor just to be safe. 

Here are a few symptoms to keep an eye out for that may indicate diabetes:

• If you find yourself going to urinate during the night or urinating more often during the day.
• Feeling more hungry and thirsty.
• May be accompanied by blurry vision.
• Difficulty getting back to your original weight after losing it during your COVID-19 recovery.
• Cuts and wounds take longer to heal.
• Feeling tired despite getting rest.
• Frequent infections.

Also Read: Omicron Variant: Latest News & Updates

Conclusion

While we still do not know if there is indeed a relation between these two conditions, there are still a few things to keep in mind. First, if you are overweight or obese try to healthily lose a few kilos. If you have already lost weight due to COVID-19 do not try to lose more weight, instead, work with your doctor to get back to a healthy weight, make changes to your diet and cut out unhealthy, processed foods. Lastly, get yourself tested for diabetes at the earliest especially if you have just recovered from COVID-19. In any case, do not panic, consult your doctors and understand the best possible way to manage the condition for yourself as the modality of treatment varies from person to person. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

World Diabetes Day: Access to Care Made Easy

Every individual is entitled to good health and wellbeing. To ensure healthy living, accessibility to medications and other health facilities are of vital importance. Today, in many parts of the world, people do not have the opportunity to realise their needs. Drawing inspiration from this vacuum is the theme of this year’s World Diabetes Day, ‘Access to Diabetes Care: If Not Now, When?’ 

World Diabetes Day is celebrated around the world on 14th November, on the occasion of Sir Frederick Banting’s birthday. Sir Frederick Banting discovered Insulin in collaboration with Charles Best in 1922. This date was chosen for the launch of WDD in the year 1991 by the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation.  

Diabetes is hailed as a silent killer due to the health complications it brings about. Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic condition characterised by high levels of blood sugar. According to a report by the World Health Organization, more than a million deaths took place in 2019 due to diabetes. Diabetes is the major cause of heart attacks, stroke, blindness and kidney failure. 

So, on the occasion of World Diabetes Day 2021, let us discuss how you can stay healthy if you are living with diabetes.  

Risk factors and causes

When we come to the causes of diabetes, there are two types to elaborate on; type 1 and type 2. 

The reason why type 1 diabetes occurs is unknown. What little can be gathered is that the immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas which are responsible for producing insulin. This leads to an insulin deficit in the body while sugar starts to accumulate in the bloodstream. 

For type 2 diabetes, the causes are categorised into two which are also interrelated:

• Cells become insulin resistant and do not take in the requisite amount of sugar
• The pancreas fails to produce the required amount of insulin leading to high blood sugars. 

Some risk factors that can make you more prone to type 2 diabetes are as follows:

• Weight: Obesity and weight gain pose a great risk. This includes fat accumulation in the abdomen area.
• Not being active enough: Sufficient physical activity daily regulates your weight and uses the excess glucose for energy. This makes cells more insulin sensitive. 
• Family history: You are at risk of diabetes if your grandparents, parents and siblings are diagnosed with it. 
• Age: Middle-aged people after the age of 45 are at risk of diabetes. 
• Pregnancy: If you had gastrointestinal diabetes during your pregnancy, you can develop type 2 diabetes later on. 
• Excessive alcohol and smoking.

Warning signs

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have the following warning signs:

• The body depends on food for energy. The carbohydrate from food is converted into glucose that is used up by the cells. When the body is not able to meet the insulin demand, the glucose will not be able to pass into the cells. This makes you more hungry and fatigued than normal. 
• Since a diabetic tends to pee a lot, the body gets dehydrated. This might make your mouth and your overall skin dry and itchy. 
• A diabetic person will experience blurred vision and will have difficulty focussing. 
• As the glucose doesn’t get used up by the cells, a diabetic person will be highly susceptible to yeast infections. Such infections will generally develop under the breast area, the gap between toes and fingers and in intimate areas such as around the sex organs.
• A slow rate of healing for cuts and sores. 
• Painful sensation in the legs or feet is another indication of nerve damage
• Skin Darkening: If you have velvety, dark patches of darkened skin in the areas around your neck and armpit, it could be an indication of insulin resistance. 

Foods to include and foods to avoid

Diabetic people need to pay special care and attention to what they are putting inside their body as what you eat can spike your blood sugar level and put your health in jeopardy. It is believed that the diet plan recommended for someone with diabetes is the ideal diet plan for all for a healthier life. 

• Fatty fish: Regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids reduces chances of inflammation. you have a lower risk of heart attacks. 
• Leafy Greens: Broccoli, kale and spinach are good sources of fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants 
• Eggs: Eggs are highly versatile, extremely nutritious, filling and a powerhouse of protein and essential vitamins. Eggs have also been found to better insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation and improve good cholesterol. 
• Chia Seeds: These seeds are a great alternative for vegetarians or vegans, diagnosed with diabetes but unable to gather their omega-3 fatty acid requirement from fish. Chia seeds and flax seeds are fibre-dense, low in carbohydrates and can help to decrease blood pressure and inflammation. 
• Nuts: Good source of fibre, healthy fat but low in carbohydrates, nuts are nutritious, filling and tasty. Nuts are good for heart health which is a requirement since diabetes makes you prone to coronary conditions. 

While some foods will regulate your blood sugar levels, keep inflammation under control, others will do just the opposite and put you at risk of diabetes-induced health complications. Some of these are:

• Trans fat: trans fat is extremely unhealthy for all. These foods include all pre-packed items such as creamers, spreads, peanut butter that use unsaturated fat. These are termed unhealthy fat and increase bad cholesterol levels. 
• White Pasta/Rice/bread: all of these use refined flour, are processed and are high in carbohydrates. 
• Fruit Flavoured Yoghurt: Though plain yoghurt is recommended to diabetics as a good source of calcium and protein, fruit flavoured versions of the same are strictly not advisable as they contain high amounts of sugar. This can lead to a spike in insulin level and increased blood sugar. 
• Breakfast Cereals: Cereals might be one of the easiest and preferred breakfast options for all, but be aware that these are highly calorific due to sugar content and are anything but healthy. 
• Fruit Juices: Packaged fruit juices are high in sugar and low in nutrition. Should you wish to drink a glass of fruit juice, always aim to replace your craving with a fresh seasonal whole fruit and not the juice. 

Exercises

Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, exercising regularly is highly recommended to keep both your weight and blood sugar under control. Here are 5 easy exercises that you can easily incorporate into your daily regime for about 30 minutes or so. 

• Cycling
• Brisk Walking 
• Aerobic Dance 
• Resistance Band Exercises 
• Yoga 

Dangers of not managing diabetes

Diabetes if left untreated can be lethal and complicated. It can either directly or indirectly weaken your bodily system. Below are some ways that diabetes can slowly break down your organs.  

•  Diabetes can create several issues with your blood vessels and heart
• Diabetes puts you at risk of increased eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. 
• You are at risk of kidney failure and the telltale sign of this is that you will notice your feet and legs swelling more than usual. 
•  If you do not have your diabetes under control you will experience gum issues and frequent infections
• It can affect your nervous system- tingling numbness in feet, urinary incontinence, memory loss, indigestion. 

If you are living with diabetes, a few lifestyle tweaks can keep you safe, healthy and out of unnecessary complications. 

Diabetes care

Diabetes is a complicated condition but one that can be kept under control. To lead a healthy life with your family, here is what you should do.  

• Follow a healthy diet as advised by your dietician or doctor
• Monitor your blood sugar daily (before and after you exercise)
• Refrain from smoking and alcohol
• Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol by not stressing too much and taking your prescribed medications on time
• Visit your ophthalmologist at least once every year  
• Pay attention to your body parts for any unusual skin darkening, swelling or infections  
• Take your oral health into your stride as diabetes can wreak havoc with your gums and teeth.  
• Eat healthily and timely.

Also Read: What Level of Blood Sugar is Dangerous? A Complete, Research-Based Guide

India’s toll-free diabetes helpline

In case of any emergency or treatment-related inquiry, you can call on the following toll-free number: 1800 121 2096. 

Conclusion: 

Living with diabetes can be stressful and frustrating at times due to the number of dietary restrictions one has to follow every day but rest assured that it is possible. With proper emotional and mental support from your loved ones, you can lead a healthy and normal life. Furthermore, due to the active efforts on the part of the government to spread awareness and the wider availability of medications provided by online pharma giants such as PharmEasy, buying medications and other diabetes-related kits and essentials have become easy, fun and less time-consuming. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Is Diabetes Genetic? Facts You Must Know

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) generally tends to run in families. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes recently, it is likely that you will find a history of diabetic relatives in your family tree. The question is –  Is diabetes a genetic disease? People with diabetes often wonder about the chances of passing this condition to their children or the likelihood of developing the disease if their parents have it. 

Your genes definitely play a role in developing diabetes. Having a family history of diabetes raises your chances of acquiring the condition. However, diabetes mellitus is caused by a host of different factors, including genes. Not everyone may inherit the gene, and even if they do, it’s possible to avoid the disease successfully. 

The impact of genetic factors varies according to the different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetic factors mostly, whereas environmental factors heavily influence type 2 diabetes. To understand if diabetes is a genetic disease, we need to understand the role of different factors in developing the disease. 

Is Type 1 Diabetes Genetic? 

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition wherein the body attacks its own immune system, leading to the destruction of the pancreas cells responsible for producing insulin. This hormone helps in carrying sugar into the cells for the production of energy. This condition results in hyperglycemia (increased blood sugar levels) and requires the affected person to take insulin injections to restore the insulin their body doesn’t create. 

Children or young adults are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes. 

Is Type 1 diabetes caused by genetic factors? Yes, genes can play an important part in developing this disease, but that’s not the only reason. This is seen even in identical twins who share the same set of genes. Sometimes one twin might get type 1 DM, whereas the other won’t. This is where environmental factors can play a role. 

Possible Risk Factors for Type 1 Diabetes 

• Climate: People living in cooler temperatures are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes. The disease is also more likely to onset during the winter months. 
• Viral Infections: It is possible that certain viruses can trigger type 1 diabetes in some people. 
• Early Diet: Your diet as a child may also play a role. People who were breastfed while being introduced to solid food are less likely to develop type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Type 1 diabetes can evolve over time, and there might be certain factors that cause the trigger of autoimmune antibodies that cause type 1. Once a person has developed type 1, the condition can’t be cured, but it is manageable through medical intervention. 

Is Type 2 Diabetes Genetic? 

Type 2 DM is the most common type of diabetes. Globally 6.28% of the world’s population is afflicted by type 2 diabetes mellitus. As seen in type 1, people affected with type 2 are more likely to have a family history of this diabetes type. 

Type 2 diabetes is genetic too but, unlike type 1, genetics have a smaller role to play in this case. Environmental factors and daily lifestyle have a more significant impact on developing this condition. 

Possible Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

• Being obese or having a high body mass index (BMI) of 25-40 or greater. 
• People aged 45 or older
• A sedentary lifestyle with minimum physical activity
• High cholesterol level
• High blood pressure 
• History of gestational diabetes, diabetes that occurs during pregnancy
• History of cardiac diseases 
• Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
• Depression 
• Drug-Induced 

People with two or more risk factors are more vulnerable to developing type 2. 

What can One do if Diabetes Runs in the Family?

1. Type 1: Type 1 diabetes is genetic; hence the hereditary factors that play a role in developing this condition cannot be totally done away with. However, if type 1 runs into your family, you can implement a few methods to lower the risk. 

• Breastfeed your infant up to the age of six months. 
• Try to minimise your child’s exposure to viral infections and ensure that they get all the necessary vaccinations during their childhood. 
• Enforce good hygiene practices such as hand washing, especially before eating the food and good food habits too. 

2. Type 2: Experts believe that making positive lifestyle changes can play a significant role in preventing the development of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes mellitus causes are several; all these factors causing DM can be managed to lower your risk by implementing certain lifestyle changes.

• Maintain a healthy body weight: If you are overweight, now is a good time to shed those extra kilos. Losing 5-7 per cent of your initial weight can significantly reduce your chances of developing type 2 DM.

• Stay physically fit: To counteract a sedentary lifestyle, start working out for at least 150 minutes every week. You can choose to do moderate-intensity activity such as walking daily or sweat it out with about 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week. 

• Eat a balanced diet: Include fruits and a wide variety of vegetables into your diet to lower your risk of type 2 DM. Eat fibre rich foods and avoid eating processed food with high sugar content. 

• Quit smoking and drinking: A healthy lifestyle begins with curbing unhealthy habits. Quit smoking and cut back on alcohol to mitigate the risk of developing Type 2 DM.

• Regular Health Checkups: If you fall in the age group of 45 years and above, start routine screenings to identify early signs of diabetes type 2. People with other risk factors like obesity should opt for screenings from an earlier age.  

Also Read: 75 Soft Challenge: A Comprehensive Guide to Embrace the Lifestyle Change

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus is a complex disease that can be caused by multiple factors. It is normal to wonder if diabetes is a genetic condition or not, especially when one has family members who have diabetes. However, diabetes mellitus is caused by several other reasons besides just genetic factors. Once you identify the probable factors and causes of diabetes mellitus, you can modify your habits and reduce your chances of developing diabetes.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.