Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a collection of diseases that affect your metabolism. When you have the condition, you’re unable to produce the hormone insulin or produce enough of it to keep your body’s blood sugar levels in check. 

Your blood sugar is affected by the foods you eat. Insulin helps process the sugar that comes from food. When you have diabetes, you have chronically high blood sugar, which can have short- and long-term health effects. 

The types of diabetes include:

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which your body cannot produce insulin. This form is usually diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes

This form usually affects middle-aged and older adults. It occurs when your body isn’t able to properly process insulin. Your lifestyle habits greatly affect your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes can occur during pregnancy. It is much like type 2 diabetes. This form puts you at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes after your pregnancy.

Prediabetes

Your blood sugar levels are high, but not quite high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Up to 70% of people with prediabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes. 

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Symptoms of diabetes, especially type 2, come on so gradually, you may not even notice them. Indications of the disease, especially in the case of type 1 diabetes, include:

• Increased thirst and hunger
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Unintended weight loss
• Slow-healing sores
• Darkened skin, especially in the armpits or neck areas

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they come on rather suddenly, it’s important you come to Hope & Esperanza Community Health Center for an evaluation. 

What happens if diabetes goes unmanaged?

Unmanaged blood sugar levels can cause serious complications. People with unmanaged or poorly managed diabetes can develop heart disease, stroke, peripheral neuropathy, tooth problems, amputation of a limb, or damage to the eyes, liver, or kidneys.

What is the treatment for diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common diabetes diagnosis. The providers at Hope & Esperanza Community Health Center help you monitor your blood sugar levels, follow an appropriate diet, plan for more exercise, lose weight, and get the proper medications. 

Type 1 diabetics usually require replacement insulin, as well as proper diet and exercise. 

Good diet and exercise habits can often reverse prediabetes, so you avoid developing the full-blown form of the disease. 

If you’re at risk of developing diabetes or need help with your diagnosis, call Hope & Esperanza Community Health Center today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.