What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to turn the glucose from food into energy. It is caused when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or to use insulin properly. This results in a higher than normal level of glucose in the blood. The symptoms may seem harmless, but the consequences can be serious, even fatal. There are three types of diabetes: type 1 (formerly known as juvenile diabetes), type 2, and gestational.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes affects about 5% to 10% of the population. Genetic in origin, it is almost always diagnosed at an early age – either in children or young adults – but can be diagnosed at any age. With this type of diabetes, the body produces no insulin, so people with type 1 diabetes must take insulin by injection or through use of an insulin pump.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It develops as a result of a metabolic disorder, in which the body can’t make enough insulin or can’t use the insulin it makes effectively. Generally developed later in life, initially type 2 may be managed through dietary modification and exercise, although as the condition progresses, medication or insulin may be required. Age, inactivity, weight issues and a family history of diabetes all may be risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes.

Pre-Diabetes

Approximately 57 million people in the U.S. are considered to have pre-diabetes – in other words, they are at an increased risk to develop type 2 diabetes. With adjustments in diet and exercise, and in some cases medication, it is still possible at this stage to delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs when women without a history of diabetes develop high blood glucose levels during pregnancy. If blood glucose levels remain too high during pregnancy, it can affect both mother and baby. In most cases, high blood glucose levels can be treated with only diet modification and a physician approved exercise program. Occasionally, medications may need to be added to the treatment plan. Most women with gestational diabetes will need to check their blood glucose level at home on a regular basis with blood glucose monitors. Blood glucose levels generally return to normal after delivery, although there is an increased risk for these women of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

If you have concerns about the above topics or any other diabetes questions, contact Liberty Medical.