Diabetes Treatment in India for Bangladeshi Patients

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a long-term health condition where the body cannot use or make insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar from the food we eat move into the cells to give us energy. When insulin does not work well or is missing, sugar stays in the blood. This causes high blood sugar, which can lead to serious problems if not treated.

There are two main types:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The body makes little or no insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: The body does not use insulin well.

Another type of diabetes is gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy. In general, diabetes is referred to as “sugar disease” or “blood sugar problem.”

A common myth is that eating too many sweets causes diabetes. The truth is, diabetes happens due to many reasons, like family history, being overweight, or problems with the body’s immune system.

Diabetes can be managed well with the right care, medicine, and healthy habits. Many people live long and active lives by keeping their sugar levels under control.

Why Do People Need Diabetes Management?

Managing diabetes is important to keep blood sugar levels normal. Without treatment, diabetes can cause serious problems like heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. Timely care helps patients live healthy lives and avoid complications.

Causes of Diabetes

The underlying reasons differ between type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, but several common risk factors contribute:

• Ageing - Risk increases with age, especially after 45 years.
• Family history - Having parents or siblings with diabetes raises your risk.
• Genetic factors - Certain inherited genes increase the likelihood, especially in type 1 diabetes.
• Being overweight or obese - Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, leads to insulin resistance.
• Lack of physical activity - Inactivity reduces insulin sensitivity and contributes to weight gain.
• Unhealthy diet - Diets high in sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods increase the risk.
• Type 2 diabetes risk factors - Metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels raise the risk.
• Gestational diabetes - Developing diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk for both the mother and child later.
• Hormonal disorders - Conditions like PCOS can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes.
• Smoking and alcohol - Tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption are linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Certain medications - Long-term use of steroids and some psychiatric or transplant drugs can lead to diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Symptoms of diabetes may develop slowly. Many people do not realise they have diabetes until tests are done.

• Frequent urination - High blood sugar causes the kidneys to flush out excess glucose through urine.
• Increased thirst - Excessive urination leads to dehydration, making you feel unusually thirsty.
• Extreme hunger - The body can't use glucose properly, so it craves more food for energy.
• Unexplained weight loss - Despite eating more, the body may break down fat and muscle for energy.
• Fatigue - Lack of usable glucose in the cells can make you feel tired and sluggish.
• Blurred vision - High sugar levels can affect the eye's lenses, causing temporary vision changes.
• Slow-healing wounds - High blood sugar levels impair circulation and healing.
• Frequent infections - Yeast and urinary tract infections are more common in people with diabetes.
• Tingling or numbness - Nerve damage (neuropathy), especially in the hands and feet, may cause a pins-and-needles feeling.
• Darkened skin patches - Acanthosis nigricans, often on the neck or armpits, can be a sign of insulin resistance.

When These Symptoms Lead to Treatment

Doctors may recommend starting treatment when:

• Blood tests show abnormal sugar levels
• Symptoms get worse
• Complications like infections or vision problems occur
• Blood pressure or cholesterol levels rise

Tests for Diabetes

Early detection of diabetes is crucial to prevent serious complications. If you have symptoms or risk factors, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:

1. Random Blood Sugar Test
This test checks your blood sugar level at any time of the day, regardless of when you last ate. A result of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with symptoms like frequent urination or fatigue, may indicate diabetes and should be confirmed with other tests.

2. Fasting Blood Sugar Test
Measures blood sugar after you haven’t eaten for at least 8 hours. A result of 126 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes.

3. HbA1c Test (Glycated Haemoglobin)
This test shows your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or above is considered diabetic.

4. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
After fasting, your blood sugar is tested, then again two hours after drinking a glucose solution. A reading of 200 mg/dL or more after two hours confirms diabetes.

5. Postprandial Blood Sugar Test
Measures sugar levels exactly two hours after eating. High results may indicate poor blood sugar control.

These tests help confirm if you have diabetes, track your progress, and guide treatment.

What Complications Occur if Diabetic? 

If diabetes is not managed properly, it can lead to serious complications over time. These may affect multiple organs and body systems:

• Heart disease and stroke - High blood sugar damages blood vessels and raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Kidney failure (diabetic nephropathy) - Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease.
• Eye damage (diabetic retinopathy) - Uncontrolled sugar levels can lead to blurred vision and even blindness.
• Nerve damage (neuropathy) - Tingling, numbness, and pain, especially in the hands and feet, are common.
• Foot ulcers and amputations - Poor blood flow and nerve damage can lead to slow-healing wounds and infections.
• Skin and mouth problems - People with diabetes are more prone to skin infections and gum disease.
• Mental health issues - Depression and anxiety are more common in people with chronic conditions like diabetes.

These complications can often be prevented or delayed with prompt diagnosis, regular monitoring, and proper treatment.

Diabetic Patient Diet Chart

Here is a sample diet chart for a type 2 diabetes patient to manage blood sugar and stay healthy every day.

Understanding what to eat to quickly reduce diabetes (sugar) is crucial for managing spikes. Focus on foods that have a low glycemic index and are rich in fibre. Leafy greens, bitter gourd (karela), fenugreek seeds, whole grains, lentils, and nuts can support better glucose control. Including lean proteins and healthy fats in meals also helps slow down sugar absorption. 

At the same time, know which foods increase diabetes (blood sugar), such as white rice, white bread, sugary snacks, processed foods, and sweetened beverages, and avoid them, as these can cause rapid glucose spikes. A balanced, portion-controlled diet and regular physical activity are key to managing diabetes effectively.

To maintain stable blood sugar levels, diabetic patients should eat meals at regular intervals and drink plenty of water throughout the day. It's important to avoid foods forbidden for diabetic patients, including sugary drinks, fried items, and refined carbohydrates. Limit salt and saturated fats to reduce the risk of complications. Choose whole grains like brown rice over refined flours for better glycemic control. 

Also, be mindful of which vegetables should not be eaten in diabetes, such as potatoes, sweetcorn, and yams, as they are high in starch and can spike blood sugar levels. For a personalised diet plan, it's best to consult a certified dietician.

Exercises for a Diabetes Patient

1. Walking: Simple and low-impact. Brisk walking for 30 minutes a day helps regulate blood sugar

2. Cycling: Improves heart health and blood circulation. Lowers glucose levels and strengthens leg muscles

3. Swimming. Gentle on joints and full-body workout. Enhances insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health

4. Yoga: Reduces stress and supports hormonal balance. Improves flexibility, digestion, and blood sugar control

5. Strength training: Lifting light weights or using resistance bands. Builds muscle mass, which helps the body use insulin more efficiently

6. Aerobic exercises: Include dancing, jogging, or group fitness classes. Helps burn calories and manage body weight

7. Chair exercises (for seniors or those with limited mobility): Seated leg lifts, arm circles, or light resistance movements. Improves circulation and keeps the body active safely

8. Stretching: Prevents stiffness and improves flexibility. Ideal before and after workouts

Before exercising, remember some tips. Always check your blood sugar before and after exercising. Stay hydrated. Wear proper footwear to avoid foot injuries. Keep a small snack handy in case of low sugar levels. Start slow and gradually increase intensity.

Early management of diabetes leads to better long-term outcomes and fewer complications. If you or your loved ones show any symptoms or need support, Bangla Health Connect helps you connect with top diabetes specialists at Apollo Hospitals.

Why Choose India for Diabetes Treatment?

India is a top destination for diabetes treatment for Bangladeshi patients. Every year, thousands of people visit India for expert care, accurate diagnosis, and affordable management of diabetes and related complications.

Key reasons why Bangladeshi patients choose India:

• Experienced diabetes specialists
  India has highly trained endocrinologists and diabetologists who manage all types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.
• Comprehensive diabetes care
  Hospitals offer complete care under one roof, blood tests, foot care, eye screening, diet counselling, insulin therapy, and treatment for complications.
• Affordable treatment costs
  Compared to other countries, diabetes management and testing in India are much more cost-effective, making long-term care easier for patients.
• Advanced testing and facilities
  Indian hospitals use modern equipment for blood sugar monitoring, HbA1c tests, insulin pump therapy, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).
• Easy travel and Bengali support
  Travelling from Bangladesh to India is simple. Many hospitals have Bengali-speaking staff or interpreters to support patients throughout their visit.
• Fast access to care
  Patients can book consultations, undergo tests like the random blood sugar test, and start treatment quickly, often within 1-2 days of arrival.
• Proven trust and results
  Many Bangladeshi families trust Indian hospitals for diabetes care and return home with better health and clear management plans.

India offers the right mix of skilled doctors, advanced treatment options, lower cost, and patient-friendly services. Compared to other countries, patients get the same quality care at a much more affordable price in India.

Contact Bangla Health Connect today to connect with top Indian hospitals, book a doctor’s appointment, or get a second opinion.