Diabetes

Diabetes Q & A

What is diabetes?

Diabetes refers to your body’s inability to control its blood sugar levels. There are two different types of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disease because your body’s immune system attacks the cells that create insulin in the pancreas. Since your body can’t produce insulin, you must inject insulin daily.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, also called adult-onset diabetes, occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin to transport the glucose into muscle and fat cells. Another cause is due to your body becoming resistant to insulin.

If you don’t manage your diabetes, potential consequences include blood vessel and nerve damage. In addition, regardless of the type of diabetes you have, you’re twice as likely to have a heart attack or heart disease in comparison to someone without diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes have different symptoms. The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes can appear rapidly and include:

• Tingling or numbness in extremities
• Unintended weight loss
• Weakness and fatigue
• Extreme hunger
• Fruity-smelling breath

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes develop slowly to the point where it could be years prior to having any noticeable symptoms. Be on the lookout for symptoms, such as:

• Frequent infections
• Blurred vision
• Increased hunger
• Increased thirst

Because of the consequences which diabetes can bring about, the highly trained physicians at NAG Clinics recommend you come in for a consultation to determine if you have diabetes.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diabetes can be diagnosed through a fasting blood sugar test. If your blood sugar level is less than 100 mg/dl, then it’s considered normal. A fasting blood sugar level ranging from 100-125 mg/dl is prediabetes. If your blood sugar level exceeds 126 mg/dl, then you have diabetes. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor repeats the exam again on another day.

How can I prevent diabetes?

While Type 1 diabetes is not preventable, you can reduce your risk or even prevent Type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes such as:

Exercising regularly

Controlling your blood pressure

Maintaining a healthy weight

Limiting your sodium intake

If you’re experiencing diabetes symptoms, call NAG Clinics today or schedule your appointment online for compassionate treatment and diagnosis.