Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas, or does not properly respond to it, affecting the normal metabolic body cycles, such as loss of hair. Hair loss can be one of the first symptoms of diabetes, as the growth cycle is disrupted and hair may begin to fall out. Keeping fit and healthy is important in controlling diabetes. Losing weight is a good way for overweight patients to reduce blood sugar levels, but they should consult their doctor before beginning an exercise or diet regimen.
Diabetes and the Scalp
Diabetes weakens the immune system, which is responsible for protecting against disease by killing pathogens and tumor cells. The immune system identifies many viruses and such parasites as worms, and distinguishes them from the body's healthy cells and tissues. With a weakened immune system, the diabetic patient is more susceptible to infections, both internally and externally, which includes the scalp.
Diabetes and Hair Growth
A weakened immune system can lead to scalp infections and hair loss, which is often seen in diabetic patients who do not properly manage their diabetes. Circulatory system problems caused by diabetes can also result in hair loss, due to resulting problems all over your body, including the scalp. Hair follicles do not receive enough nutrients in these conditions, and thus do not produce new hairs, and may die. Other causes of diabetes-related hair loss are hormone imbalances in women; thyroid conditions; skin rashes; and some diabetes medications.
Diabetes and weight loss
Diabetes often times results in weight loss, even in the patients that are eating everything in sight. High blood glucose levels result from uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes, causing increased thirst and increased trips to the toilet, more frequently at night, and often times results in weight loss. For both the patient that is not properly controlling their diabetes and the overweight patient maintaining proper blood glucose levels is important. Diabetes can be fatal and it is extremely important to get in physical shape to help with caring for the disease and to protect your body. Diabetes is a disease that affects many organs in the body such as the heart, nerves, eyes, and kidneys.
Symptoms
The most obvious signs of diabetes are increased thirst, weight loss, hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, irritation and blurry vision. If you are experiencing two or more of these, schedule a visit with your physician.
Warnings
Diabetes can be life threatening and should not be left untreated. Leaving diabetes untreated can cause irreversible damage to the body. The diabetic should seek the counsel of his physician in the management of the condition.
