DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease marked by high levels of sugar in the blood.  There are different types of diabetes including Type I, Type II and gestational diabetes.  The similarity is that each of these diseases are characterized by high blood glucose levels that occur because of the body’s inability to produce and/or use insulin correctly.

Some of the symptoms are similar, but there are some differences as well.  Here is a list of symptoms by disease.

Type I

  • Fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Blurry vision
  • Excessive thirst
  • Hunger
  • Weight loss

Type II

  • Fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Nausea
  • Increased thirst
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss

Gestational Diabetes

  • Fatigue
  • More

The immediate objectives for the care of your diabetes is to treat diabetic ketoacidosis and your high glucose blood levels.  From there you will be seeking to reduce your symptoms and ultimately prevent other related health problems such as kidney failure, heart problems, and blindness.

Getting connected to ongoing care and support is essential to proper care of your diabetes.  Monitoring your blood pressure and testing your glucose levels are essential.  Maintaining exercise, getting educated and following dietary recommendations are essential.

All of this leaves individuals with diabetes full of questions.  The good news is there is help there for you.  Ideally, what you are looking for is ongoing free support.  Here is your diabetes health hotline 1-800-342-2383.

Here is a list of resources that may prove helpful or insightful as you seek to care for your diabetes and the questions and concerns that arise as you navigate your life with this disease:

American Diabetes Association – Organization committed to care and education for those experiencing either Type I or Type II diabetes.