Diabetes Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic condition that develops because the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (or any insulin at all) or doesn't use insulin correctly. Diabetes can be divided into three primary types:

• Type I diabetes typically occurs in children, but it can also occur in adults. In type I diabetes, the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or it doesn't produce any at all.

• Type II diabetes occurs most frequently in adults as a result of obesity, but it can occur in children as well. In this type of diabetes, the pancreas produces insulin, but it isn't processed normally by the body.

• Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and can cause complications for both the mother and the baby. Women who develop gestational diabetes are considered to have high-risk pregnancies, and must see the doctor more frequently while they're pregnant.

The exact cause of diabetes isn't known.

What symptoms are associated with diabetes?

Symptoms can vary based on the type of diabetes you have and can include:

• increased thirst

• increased urination

• blurry vision

• fatigue

• unintentional weight loss

• itchy skin

• sores that are slow to heal

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed with a blood test to determine your blood sugar, or glucose, levels. People who have diabetes have glucose levels above 126 mg/dl.

What treatments are available for diabetes?

Diabetes requires careful and vigilant management to avoid serious complications like kidney failure and blindness. You'll need to check your blood sugar levels frequently and you may need to inject insulin on a regular basis, especially if you have Type I diabetes. You'll also need to watch your diet and avoid certain foods and see your doctor regularly to ensure your treatment is regulated and adjusted to your changing health needs.