Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy.
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
In type 1 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose for energy.
In type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t use insulin as well as it should.
Diabetes can cause a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and amputations.
There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed with medication, diet, and exercise.
Here are some additional details about diabetes:
Symptoms of diabetes: The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes. Some common symptoms include:
Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Unexplained weight loss
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Slow-healing sores or cuts
Causes of diabetes: The exact causes of diabetes are not fully understood, but there are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of the disease. Some of these factors include:
Genetics
Family history
Age
Race or ethnicity
Overweight or obesity
Physical inactivity
Certain medications
Certain medical conditions
Treatment for diabetes: There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed with medication, diet, and exercise. The specific treatment plan for diabetes will vary depending on the type of diabetes and the individual’s needs.
Complications of diabetes: Diabetes can cause a number of serious health complications, including:
Heart disease
Stroke
Blindness
Kidney failure
Amputations
Neuropathy (damage to the nerves)
Gum disease
Depression
If you think you may have diabetes, it is important to see a doctor for testing. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.