Diabetes is characterised by a high or elevated blood sugar level which is
caused due to lifestyle or genetics. However, in some cases, this disorder
develops due to a malfunction within the immune system.
Bacteria and viruses from the surrounding environment would frequently invade
into our body. Once inside our body, the invaders are able to use our cells to
replicate causing an infection. Thankfully, our body comes with a built in
defence-immune system. It can combat those harmful substances in a variety of
ways so as to keep a healthy state.
Study shows that the immune system are directly connected, and that a weak or
malfunctioning immune system can lead to diabetic symptoms in some cases.
Type 1 diabetes
This disease is often an autoimmune disease, and it affects nearly 5% to 10%
of the patients. When you are affected by foreign bacteria or a virus, the
immune system will be activated to fight off it. For patient with this disorder,
the immune system misdirect its signals to destroy the bacteria, and instead
attack the insulin beta cells in the pancreas. Consequently, little or no
insulin is produces to help regulate the levels of blood sugar and bring them to
normal range.
Type 2 diabetes
Sometimes, this disease can also arise when there is autoimmune disorder. A
viral infection or bacteria might lead to insulin insensitivity, though majority
of the cases are often associated with unhealthy lifestyle. When the blood sugar
is out of control, insulin can be always secreted, which has a direct effect on
both diabetes and the immune system.
The above is a general introduction. Is there anything unclear? Feel free to
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