EAU CLAIRE (WQOW) – Regarding news for those who have recovered from COVID-19. New research suggests that the virus can damage the pancreas and cause diabetes.
Medical experts say the COVID-19 virus attacks cells in the body and causes damage, especially to cells that are critical to preventing diabetes.
According to Dr. Ken Johnson, the chief medical officer at Prevea Health, it can cause the body to decrease insulin production and lead to the development of type 1 diabetes.
“One of the places it attacks cells is in some cells in the pancreas called beta cells. They work by making insulin, which is the insulin it needs to control your blood sugar, and you develop diabetes “said Johnson.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year. Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in adolescents and young adults.
Johnson said he has not seen any diabetes-related COVID-19 cases at Prevea Health, but anyone who has had COVID-19 should be on the lookout for symptoms of extreme thirst, increased urination, weight loss, or fatigue.
If you have any of these issues, schedule an A1C test right away.
