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What are the Stages of Diabetes?

Diabetes generally has many stages. Early stages may be more subtle than the later, more commonly recognizable ones. If lifestyle changes are made, diabetes stages can take many years to develop. If nothing is done, eventually diabetes can cause irreversible damage to the body.

  1. Insulin Resistance

    • In insulin resistance, it may take greater amounts of insulin to get glucose to the cells for needed energy. Insulin resistance may be a pre-diabetic state for some people.

    Hyperfiltration

    • Hyperfiltration occurs when the normal blood flow to the kidneys increases and causes them to be abnormally large. The control of blood sugar levels usually allows the kidneys to return to normal size.

    Blood in the Urine

    • Microalbuminaria happens when small amounts of albumin, a type of blood protein, enter the urine. This condition has commonly been associated with the early stages of diabetes.

    Clearer Symptoms

    • As diabetes affects the body further, the symptoms may include increased thirst, hunger and urination.

    Keeping Stages in Check

    • Diabetes stages can usually be controlled by diet, exercise, insulin, blood monitoring and physician assistance.

    Advanced Stages

    • Diabetes may eventually affect the kidneys and the heart, and can even cause blindness. If left unchecked, diabetes may cause the failure of major organs.

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