Here are all the questions about gestational diabetes

Zhao Qinxia, ​​Lingshou County People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) refers to a condition of high blood sugar levels that develops during pregnancy. It is a relatively common pregnancy complication that affects millions of pregnant women worldwide. Gestational diabetes can have a range of negative effects on the health of both the mother and the fetus, so early recognition, prevention and treatment are very important.

1. The hazards of gestational diabetes

1. The harm of high blood sugar during pregnancy to pregnant women

First, hyperglycemia during pregnancy can cause pregnant women to have three typical symptoms of diabetes: polydipsia, polyphagia, and polyuria. Secondly, hyperglycemia during pregnancy increases the possibility of complications, including hypertensive diseases during pregnancy. Pregnant women with hyperglycemia have a 2-4 times higher risk of hypertension during pregnancy than non-diabetic pregnant women. In addition, hyperglycemia during pregnancy also increases the incidence of polyhydramnios, which is 10 times higher than that of non-diabetic pregnant women. Finally, when pregnant women suffer from hyperglycemia during pregnancy, their immune function and resistance may be lower than normal people. If blood sugar levels are not well controlled, pregnant women are prone to infection, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and puerperal infections. After infection, diabetic metabolic disorders may be aggravated, and even acute complications such as ketoacidosis may be caused, posing a serious threat to the lives of pregnant women.

2. Effects of hyperglycemia during pregnancy on the fetus

First, hyperglycemia during pregnancy may cause excessive fetal growth, increasing the risk of complications during delivery. Second, hyperglycemia during pregnancy may increase the rate of fetal malformations, with the incidence of severe malformations being 7-10 times that of normal pregnancies. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy may lead to premature birth and increase the chances of problems such as infant respiratory distress syndrome. In addition, excessive growth in infancy and childhood obesity may lay the foundation for obesity and type 2 diabetes in adolescence and adulthood. Long-term exposure to high blood sugar may affect the insulin regulation mechanism of the fetus, leading to insulin resistance and pancreatic islet dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

What are the symptoms of gestational diabetes?

1. Frequent urination (polyuria): Patients may urinate frequently, which is caused by high blood sugar levels stimulating the kidneys to produce more urine.

2. Thirst and dry mouth: If you feel thirsty from time to time, you should start to observe carefully to see if there are other early symptoms of gestational diabetes.

3. Fatigue and decreased physical strength: Some pregnant women may feel tired and lack of energy, which is related to high blood sugar that causes cells to be unable to properly use glucose to obtain sufficient energy.

4. Abnormal taste: Some pregnant women may feel that the taste of food is abnormal and have abnormal taste.

5. Dizziness and blurred vision: Long-term high blood sugar may affect blood supply to the brain, causing dizziness and blurred vision.

How to deal with gestational diabetes

1. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels: Pregnant women with diabetes need to measure their blood sugar levels frequently, usually after breakfast, lunch, dinner, and before bed. These data can help doctors understand the blood sugar levels of pregnant women and adjust treatment plans as needed.

2. Diet control: Control blood sugar levels through a balanced diet. It is recommended to eat a low-sugar, low-fat, high-fiber diet, eat multiple meals, control the carbohydrate intake of food, increase the intake of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, cook with high heat, add less water, increase the protein in the staple food, and communicate with the doctor to develop a personalized diet plan.

3. Regular exercise: Appropriate exercise can help pregnant women lower their blood sugar levels. Yoga, walking, etc. are suitable choices for women with gestational diabetes. These exercises can effectively control blood sugar levels and put less strain on joints and the body. Pregnant women should pay attention to their physical condition when exercising, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, abdominal pain, etc. If any abnormality occurs, they should stop exercising immediately and seek medical advice.

4. Insulin therapy: If diet and exercise control cannot effectively control blood sugar, the doctor may recommend insulin therapy. During insulin therapy, patients need to closely monitor blood sugar levels and adjust insulin doses according to the doctor's advice to maintain blood sugar within a safe range.

5. Closely monitor the condition of mother and baby: Patients with gestational diabetes need to undergo regular prenatal examinations, including checking the size and health of the fetus. At the same time, emotional regulation and maintaining an optimistic and positive attitude are also very important. A positive attitude helps reduce anxiety and stress and better face challenges and difficulties.

It is important that women with gestational diabetes work closely with their doctor and follow the doctor's advice for treatment and management. By controlling blood sugar levels, the risk of complications can be reduced, ensuring the safety and health of both mother and child.

The above is some of the content about gestational diabetes introduced by the author. The views in the article only represent personal opinions. Pregnant mothers with gestational diabetes should not worry too much. If you have any questions, please consult a doctor at any time, follow professional medical advice, have regular follow-up visits, and maintain physical and mental happiness. I hope that all pregnant mothers can have a healthy and smooth pregnancy with the help of a doctor.