Diabetes

Diabetes is a medical health condition that leads to high levels of glucose, also known as sugar, in the body. Diabetes occurs when your body is unable to produce or use insulin the way it is supposed to. There are two types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. People living with either type of diabetes need medication to regulate their blood sugar levels.

Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition, whereby the pancreas produces little to no insulin.  Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin injections.

Type 2 Diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes are unable to properly process the insulin made by their bodies, or are unable to produce enough insulin. Most people living with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.  Type 2 diabetes may be treated in a variety of different ways depending on each individual response to oral and/or injected medication therapy.

Complications

The long-term complications of insulin develop gradually, and can include:

Cardiovascular disease: Diabetes increases your chances of developing a number of cardiovascular issues, such as coronary artery disease.

Kidney Damage: Diabetes can severely damage the kidney, which filters waste from your blood, and can result in kidney failure.

Skin Conditions: Diabetes increases your chances of developing various skin problems, such as bacterial and fungal infections.

Common Signs of Diabetes

The most common signs and symptoms of diabetes are:

• Extreme fatigue and lack of energy 

• Frequent urination 

• Tingling and/or numbness in the hands and feet 

• Frequent/recurring infections 

If you have any of these symptoms or believe that you may have diabetes, contact your healthcare provider right away.