The cells in your body need energy to function properly. This energy is supplied by glucose in your blood. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells use glucose efficiently. Glucose is also called blood sugar. Diabetes is a chronic condition that happens when glucose levels are too high.

There are two types of diabetes, both of which require treatment to control. Type 1 diabetes is the result of the pancreas not producing insulin. Even though this form of diabetes can develop at any age, it is most commonly seen in children and young adults. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that requires taking insulin for a lifetime.

Type 2 diabetes is more common in the general population. With this disease, your pancreas does not make enough insulin to keep your blood sugar at the correct level, or your body may not be using insulin well enough to stabilize glucose levels.

Treatment for type 2 diabetes does not always require insulin. This type of diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes. Eating healthy foods and getting enough exercise may be all that is required to treat type 2 diabetes for some individuals. Regular blood glucose testing will help monitor your progress and let you know how well you are managing your diabetes.

Know the Symptoms

Both types of diabetes share some of the same symptoms. Type 2 develops slowly, and symptoms may be missed or mistaken for another condition. Symptoms of diabetes include:

• Constant thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Frequent hunger
• Sores that take a long time to heal
• Blurry eyesight

Type 1 diabetes symptoms include the above, plus you may lose weight without trying, experience dry, itchy skin and have a tingling sensation or lose feeling in your feet.

Treatment is important because diabetes can lead to serious problems. The disease can affect your heart, kidneys, nerves, eyesight, gums and teeth. Diabetes can become a life-threatening disease if left untreated.

A thorough checkup and blood test can identify if you have prediabetes or diabetes. Contact our office today to schedule an examination with Dr. Brent J. Michael.