Diabetes
People with diabetes have too much sugar in their blood. This happens when the body can’t make or use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body turn sugar, starches, and other food into energy.
What are the Types of Diabetes?
There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
1
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to live.
2
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It happens when the body can’t use insulin properly or when there isn’t enough insulin. People with type 2 diabetes may need to take pills, exercise, and eat a healthy diet to control their blood sugar levels. Some people with type 2 diabetes also need to take insulin.
3
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that happens only during pregnancy. About 4% of all pregnant women have gestational diabetes. It usually goes away after the baby is born.
If you have any type of diabetes, it’s important to manage your blood sugar levels. This can help prevent health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
What are the Risk Factors of Each Type of Diabetes?
Here are some things that can increase your risk for each type of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes
- Having a family history of type 1 diabetes
- Being a child or teenager when you develop diabetes
- Being white
Type 2 Diabetes
- Being age 45 or older when you develop diabetes
- Having a family history of type 2 diabetes
- Being African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander
Gestational Diabetes
- Having a previous baby who was very large (9 pounds or more)
- Developing diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes)
- Being over 25 years old
- Having a family history of gestational diabetes or type 2 diabetes
Symptoms of Diabetes
Some common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Urinating more often than usual, especially at night
- Feeling very tired
- Losing weight without trying
- Having sores that heal slowly
- Itchy skin
- Blurred vision
Prevention And Treatment Options
There is no known cure for diabetes, but it can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.
If you have diabetes, it’s important to:
- Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor
People with diabetes should see a doctor at least once a year for a physical exam and to check their blood sugar levels. They may need to see their doctor more often if they have problems controlling their blood sugar levels.
If you’re at risk for type 2 diabetes, you may be able to prevent it or delay its onset by:
- Losing weight if you’re overweight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor
Living With Diabetes
People with diabetes must take steps to manage their condition every day. This includes monitoring their blood sugar levels, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
Managing your blood sugar levels is very important. You can do this by checking your blood sugar levels regularly and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.
It’s also important to eat a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s also important to limit unhealthy foods, such as processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats.