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Basic Knowledge About Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects the body's blood sugar. People with diabetes have too much glucose in the blood. When left untreated, diabetes can have serious implications for a person's health.

  1. Types

    • Diabetes is divided into two types. In type 1, the immune system attacks the pancreas, killing off the cells that make insulin, a substance that helps control glucose. In type 2, which is more common, the cells in your body do not properly utilize insulin, according to Mayo Clinic.

    Identification

    • Symptoms vary for people with diabetes. Some experience exhaustion, weight loss, increased appetite and thirst and excessive urination.

    Time Frame

    • Type 1 diabetes usually begins during childhood or adolescence while type 2 can strike at any time. Type 2 diabetes most often stems from lifestyle choices such as inactivity and poor diet.

    Potential

    • If left untreated, diabetes can lead to a plethora of problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and damage to eyes, feet and hands.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Treatment for people with diabetes depends on the severity of the disease. Most people will need insulin injections to survive, but more exercise and dietary changes can also have a big impact.

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