INSULIN RESISTANCE

Insulin resistance can manifest with various symptoms and signs, but it's important to note that not everyone with insulin resistance will experience all of these symptoms, and some individuals may remain asymptomatic for a long time. Here are some common symptoms and signs associated with insulin resistance:

• Increased Hunger: You may feel hungry more often, even shortly after eating.

• Weight Gain: Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain can be a sign of insulin resistance.

• High Triglycerides: Elevated triglyceride levels in blood tests may indicate insulin resistance.

• High Blood Sugar Levels: Insulin resistance often leads to higher fasting blood sugar levels (prediabetes) or even diabetes if left untreated.

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Insulin resistance is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure.

• Increased Thirst: Frequent thirst and the need to drink more fluids can be related to elevated blood sugar levels.

• Slow Healing Cuts and Sores: Wounds and sores may take longer to heal than usual.

• Blurry Vision: Changes in blood sugar levels can affect the eyes, causing temporary vision problems.

• Headaches: Some people with insulin resistance report experiencing more frequent headaches.

• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy can be a symptom, especially if your body's cells aren't effectively using glucose for energy.

• Frequent Urination: You may need to urinate more frequently, especially during the night.

Insulin resistance is a common feature of various medical conditions, and some notable types are:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is characterised by insulin resistance and impaired insulin production. As the disease progresses, the body may struggle to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

• Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It includes insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood triglycerides, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is characterised by high levels of androgens (male hormones), irregular menstrual cycles, and cysts on the ovaries. Insulin resistance is a common underlying feature of PCOS.

• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. Insulin resistance plays a significant role in the development and progression of NAFLD.

• Obesity: Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, particularly when excess fat is distributed around the abdomen (visceral fat).

• Acanthosis Nigricans: Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterised by dark, thickened patches of skin, often appearing in the armpits, neck, groin, or other skin creases. It can be linked to insulin resistance.

• Gestational Diabetes: Some pregnant women develop gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. Insulin resistance is a key factor in gestational diabetes.

• Cushing's Syndrome: Cushing's syndrome is a condition characterised by excessive production of cortisol, a stress hormone. It can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes.

• Lipodystrophy Syndromes: Lipodystrophy syndromes are rare genetic disorders characterised by abnormal fat distribution in the body. These conditions can lead to severe insulin resistance

Insulin resistance is a complex metabolic condition influenced by various factors. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to the development of insulin resistance:

• Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly abdominal or visceral fat, is a major contributor to insulin resistance. Fat cells release substances that can interfere with insulin's action.

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and prolonged periods of sitting or inactivity can lead to insulin resistance.

• Pregnancy: Some women may experience temporary insulin resistance during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, to ensure that glucose is available for the developing foetus.

• Age: Insulin resistance tends to increase with age, and it's more common in middle-aged and older adults.

• Chronic Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation in the body, often associated with conditions like obesity, can contribute to insulin resistance. Inflammatory substances can interfere with insulin signalling.

• Poor Diet: Diets high in processed foods, sugary beverages, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to insulin resistance. A diet low in fibre and rich in added sugars can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar.

• Hormonal Disorders: Certain hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal imbalances, can increase the risk of insulin resistance.

• Genetic Predisposition: Family history and genetics can play a role in insulin resistance. Some individuals may be genetically more susceptible to developing insulin resistance.

• Medications: Certain medications, including some antipsychotic drugs, corticosteroids, and diuretics, can contribute to insulin resistance as a side effect.

• Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnoea and chronic insufficient sleep can negatively impact insulin sensitivity.

Medical treatment for insulin resistance typically focuses on managing associated conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Here are some common medical treatment options:

• Oral Antidiabetic Medications: These medications are often prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Metformin is a commonly used medication that improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the production of glucose in the liver.

• Statins: Statin medications are prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. They may be recommended if insulin resistance is associated with high cholesterol levels.

• DPP-4 Inhibitors: Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are a class of antidiabetic drugs that help lower blood sugar levels by increasing the availability of incretin hormones. They can be used in combination with other diabetes medications to improve blood glucose control.

• Blood Pressure Medications: If insulin resistance is accompanied by high blood pressure (hypertension), medications to lower blood pressure may be prescribed. Common classes of drugs include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and calcium channel blockers.

• Insulin Therapy: In some cases, especially if blood sugar levels remain poorly controlled with oral medications, insulin therapy may be recommended. Insulin can help manage blood sugar effectively, but its use is typically reserved for more advanced stages of insulin resistance or diabetes.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes are a cornerstone of managing insulin resistance. These include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress. Healthcare providers often emphasise these lifestyle modifications as first-line treatment.