FACTS ABOUT DIABETES

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not properly produce or use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. It is an essential part of turning the food you eat into fuel for the body. The food you eat is processed by the body and converted into glucose, glucose travels through the blood stream and with the help of insulin enters the body's cells to be used for energy and growth. A person with diabetes converts food into glucose but is unable to properly use that glucose. The glucose builds up in the blood stream and is eventually urinated out.

There are three types of diabetes. Type I diabetes is diagnosed when the body does not produce insulin. Type II diabetes is diagnosed when the body produces some insulin but is unable to use it properly. Type II diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Gestational diabetes is diagnosed when the body cannot produce or properly use insulin during pregnancy. Most women diagnosed with gestational diabetes return to normal insulin production after the birth of their baby.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, foot ulcers, nerve problems, and heart problems. Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, increase fatigue, blurry vision, irritability, and unusual weight loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms see a doctor for a glucose test.

There are many treatment options for those diagnosed with diabetes. Not everyone requires insulin shots. Seek the advice of a health care professional and get your life back on track.