Diabetes
Diabetes is a life-long condition where the amount of glucose (a type of sugar) in your blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.
Diabetes is a life-long condition where the amount of glucose (a type of sugar) in your blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.
The most common types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.
Type 2 occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body's cells don't react to insulin.
Looking out for symptoms
The main symptoms include feeling thirsty all the time, tiredness, weight loss and blurred vision. It may take a while for sores to heal and you may have genital itching, episodes of thrush and frequent urination.
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, discuss your concerns with your GP or practice nurse. They will be able to advise you and if necessary, carry out further tests.
Early diagnosis will enable you to get correct treatment and help prevent long term health problems.
Living with diabetes
It's important to learn how to take control of diabetes so that you can continue to lead an active and healthy life.
Make sure that you eat a healthy diet. Taking part in regular physical activity and giving up smoking is important. Don't miss your medication and have regular checkups with your GP or diabetes clinic. They can help you manage living with diabetes as they can spot problems before they become serious.
Diabetes.org have a new online education service to support adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes prevention
If you have been told that you are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and haven’t already been referred to the Healthier You programme.
The Healthier You Programme (NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme) will help you take control of your health, supporting you to make changes to your diet weight and the amount of physical activity you do.
