What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when there is too much sugar (glucose) in the blood. It can be caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin, or by the body not responding properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, usually develops in children or young adults. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must take daily injections of insulin to stay alive. Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes, usually develops in adulthood. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or the cells do not respond properly to insulin. People with type 2 diabetes can often control their disease with diet and exercise alone, but some may need medication as well.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
The symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue and blurred vision. If left untreated, diabetic ketoacidosis (a condition caused by high blood sugar levels) can develop in people with type 1 Diabetes mellitus which can lead to coma and death if untreated.. People with either form of diabete