What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases involving persistently high blood glucose. Insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use is central. It cannot be explained simply by eating sugar. Types differ in development, treatment and monitoring, and diagnosis requires appropriate tests rather than symptoms alone.

Types, symptoms and diagnosis

1. Insulin Insulin helps regulate cellular glucose use and energy balance. Deficiency or reduced effectiveness can raise blood glucose. Food other than sweets and the body’s own glucose production also contribute. 2. Main types Type 1 involves loss of insulin-producing cells and requires insulin for survival. Type 2 involves insulin resistance and declining production. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and requires specific monitoring. 3. Possible symptoms Frequent urination, thirst, tiredness, blurred vision and unexplained weight loss can occur. Some people remain without symptoms for long periods. Fasting glucose, HbA1c and other tests are interpreted according to clinical circumstances.

Management and safety

4. Comprehensive treatment Nutrition, activity, necessary medicines and education are planned together. One restriction list or medicine does not suit everyone. Cardiovascular risk and kidney, eye and foot health need monitoring. 5. Low blood glucose Some treatments cause hypoglycemia. Learn an individual action plan for sweating, shaking or dizziness. Never give food or drink by mouth to someone unconscious or unable to swallow. 6. Emergencies Vomiting, abdominal pain, deep rapid breathing, marked drowsiness or unconsciousness can indicate an emergency, even before diabetes is diagnosed. Seek urgent help. Independently stopping insulin or changing treatment based on internet advice can cause serious harm.