Diabetes is a chronic (long-term) health condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for your body’s cells. With it, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body’s cells absorb glucose from your bloodstream.
There are three main types:
- Type 1 diabetes: This type is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- Type 2 diabetes: This is the most common type, affecting about 90% of people with diabetes. It develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin.
- Gestational diabetes: This type develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born.
Symptoms:
The symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
- Frequent infections
Type 2 diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type. It develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin. It has a number of risk factors, including:
- Family history
- Being overweight or obese
- Being physically inactive
- Having a high blood pressure
- Having a high cholesterol level
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes, can be mild and go unnoticed for years. In fact, many people suffering from it don’t have any symptoms at all. However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that you can get diagnosed and treated early. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage.
