Remembering Shelley Duvall’s Legacy and Understanding Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

The recent passing of actress Shelley Duvall at the age of 75 has cast a long shadow over the film industry. Duvall, revered for her wide-eyed look and face of 1970s cinema, leaves behind a captivating filmography and a legacy that extends far beyond the silver screen. Her longtime partner revealed complications from diabetes as the cause of her death, a stark reminder of the widespread yet often misunderstood nature of this chronic condition. Below, we unpack more about diabetes, its different types, symptoms and treatment options.

Who was Shelley Duvall and how did diabetes impact her?

Duvall was a celebrated actress known for her hauntingly beautiful portrayals in iconic films like "The Shining" and "Nashville." Beyond her talent, she was admired for her genuine and quirky personality. Last Thursday, Duvall passed away in her sleep at her Texas home, where she has lived since leaving the public eye in the mid-1990s.

Details surrounding Duvall's battle with diabetes have largely remained undisclosed. In a 2016 interview, Duvall appeared on an episode of Dr. Phill, revealing she was suffering from a mental illness. The interview caused considerable backlash, with viewers criticizing its exploitation of the actress’s illness.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is a vital energy source for your cells, and the hormone insulin helps transport it from your bloodstream into your cells. In people with diabetes, either the body doesn't produce enough insulin, or the cells become resistant to its effects. This leads to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream, which can damage organs and tissues over time.

There are two main types:

• Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin injections to manage their blood sugar levels.
• Type 2 diabetes: The common type of diabetes, accounting for around 90% of all cases. In type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin, or the cells become resistant to its effects. While some people with type 2 diabetes can manage their condition with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, others may also require medication or insulin therapy.

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Signs and symptoms of diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some common signs include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Excessive hunger
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Frequent infections

Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes are crucial for preventing complications. Diabetes can develop at any age, but usually depends on the type. Type 1 usually develops in childhood or early adulthood, while type 2 is most common between the ages of 45-64. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage (neuropathy) and blindness.

Risk factors also vary depending on the type of diabetes. While type 1 develops at a younger age, people are more likely to develop type 2 if they are 45 or older, have a family history of the disease or have obesity.

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Treatment options for diabetes

Management of diabetes focuses on keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range. For those with type 1, insulin must be taken several times a day, whether by a needle and syringe, insulin pump or artificial pancreas. People with type 2, however, can control their blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes. This can involve:

• Diet: Eating a healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein plays a vital role in management.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
• Medication: Depending on the type and severity, medications like oral medications or insulin injections may be needed.
• Blood sugar monitoring: Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels allows individuals to adjust their diet, medication, or insulin accordingly.

Living with diabetes

While there's no cure for diabetes, it can be effectively managed with proper diet, exercise, medication and regular check-ups with a healthcare professional. Many people with the condition live long and fulfilling lives. The key is to understand the condition, take control of your health and seek support from your healthcare team and loved ones.

More ways to prevent diabetes:

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan