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Diabetes Mellitus: What You Need to Know!
Published: Aug 08, 2024
Diabetes mellitus is a condition that affects how your body handles sugar. Knowing the signs and how it's diagnosed can help in managing this common disease.
Understanding Diabetes Types
Type 2 diabetes is the most common, making up over 90% of cases. It often develops slowly and is linked to insulin resistance. Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand, is an autoimmune condition that destroys insulin-producing cells, leading to a complete lack of insulin.
Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms are often subtle and can be easy to overlook, but they are crucial signs that your body is struggling to manage sugar levels.
Diagnosing Diabetes
Doctors use blood tests like fasting plasma glucose and A1C to diagnose diabetes. These tests measure your blood sugar levels and help determine if you have diabetes or are at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main types are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 is caused by an autoimmune attack on insulin-producing cells.
Through blood tests like fasting plasma glucose and A1C.
Yes, especially in Type 2 diabetes.
The Bottom Line
Recognizing diabetes early can lead to better management and outcomes.
References
- American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 2. Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024. Diabetes Care 2024; 47:S20.
- Merger SR, Leslie RD, Boehm BO. The broad clinical phenotype of Type 1 diabetes at presentation. Diabet Med 2013; 30:170.
- Karjalainen J, Salmela P, Ilonen J, et al. A comparison of childhood and adult type I diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med 1989; 320:881.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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