Diabetes (Type 1 & 2)

Diabetic doing a glucose test at home to monitor for low or high blood sugar.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes develops when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health problems including heart disease, kidney damage, vision loss, and nerve issues.

Frequent urination
Increased thirst or hunger
Fatigue
Blurry vision
Slow-healing sores
Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1)

Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, exercise, and weight management
Medications: Oral diabetes medications (Type 2)
Insulin therapy: Required for Type 1 and sometimes for Type 2
Blood sugar monitoring: Regular glucose checks to prevent complications
Ongoing care: Regular visits with a primary care provider or endocrinologist

Autoimmune response (Type 1)
Genetic predisposition
Obesity and lack of exercise (Type 2)
Hormonal changes (gestational diabetes risk)
Insulin resistance (Type 2)

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

Frequent urination
Increased thirst or hunger
Fatigue
Blurry vision
Slow-healing sores
Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1)

Causes

Autoimmune response (Type 1)
Genetic predisposition
Obesity and lack of exercise (Type 2)
Hormonal changes (gestational diabetes risk)
Insulin resistance (Type 2)

Treatments

Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, exercise, and weight management
Medications: Oral diabetes medications (Type 2)
Insulin therapy: Required for Type 1 and sometimes for Type 2
Blood sugar monitoring: Regular glucose checks to prevent complications
Ongoing care: Regular visits with a primary care provider or endocrinologist