What is Diabetes?

Simply put, diabetes is when the sugar in foods cannot get into the cells of the body. The blood sugar levels rise too high and the cells die. The body makes a hormone called insulin, which enables the cells to accept the sugar. Without the proper amount or effective use of insulin, many health problems and even death can result. People of any age can get diabetes. However, most people with diabetes are middle-aged or older.

Two Main Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes (also called Insulin Dependent Diabetes)
People with this type of diabetes do not make insulin at all. Insulin shots are needed for them to live. Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes usually get it when they are less than 30 years old.

Type 2 Diabetes (also called Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes)
Most people have Type 2 Diabetes. Their bodies either do not make enough insulin, or they cannot utilize the insulin they do make. Often Type 2 Diabetes can be managed by eating a healthy diet, staying active and exercising, and maintaining a proper weight. Medications are also available that help the body utilize insulin, which helps the cells accept needed nutrients.

Diabetes is a Serious Disease

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause serious health problems. People with diabetes are much more likely to have

• Heart Disease. People with diabetes are two to six times more likely to have heart attacks and strokes.

• Eye Disease. Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness.

• Kidney Disease. Diabetes is the most common cause of serious kidney disease.

• Nerve Disease. There is no cure for neuropathy, a disease that affects over half of the people with diabetes. Neuropathy can strike many nerves in the body. It especially causes burning, tingling, and numbness of the feet.

• Foot Disease. Diabetes is the leading cause of amputations of the toes, feet, and legs.

• Pregnancy Problems. Birth defects happen more often to the babies of women with diabetes than to babies of women who do not have diabetes.

• Sexual Problems. Half of all men with diabetes become impotent.
  

Symptoms of Diabetes

• Constant thirst and frequent urination

• Weight loss even when eating enough food

• Excessive tiredness and drowsiness

• Cuts and bruises that do not heal

• Poor eyesight that keeps changing

• Burning, tingling, and numbness in feet, legs, or fingers

• Aching feet and legs

• Extra dry and itchy skin

• Vaginal infections that do not go away

• Problems with gums and teeth

Getting Help

If you have any of the above symptoms, get medical care now and have your blood tested for sugar. Either call your personal health care practitioner, a hospital, or your local health department for medical care and diabetes education.