What is Diabetes?

 

Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. High blood glucose can cause health problems over time if left unchecked.

 

There are several types of diabetes:

• Type 1 – Occurs when you’re a child

• Type 2 – Adult Onset

• Gestational – Occurs during pregnancy

 

Our program will cover Type 2 which is the most common type of diabetes.

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Causes of Type 2 Diabetes 

 

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin.

 

Insulin is a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar in your blood. 

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Genetics and environmental factors, such as being overweight and inactive, are contributing factors to Type 2 Diabetes.

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Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes 

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• Increased thirst and urination  

• Feeling tired 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• Blurred vision 

• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet 

• Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal 

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While the above are commonly experienced by people living with Type 2 Diabetes, many people have no symptoms and may not know they have diabetes at all. 

 

*FACT: A yearly physical can determine if you are at risk for Type 2 Diabetes even if you don’t have obvious symptoms.*

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Managing Diabetes 

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The following topics will be covered over the next 4 modules:

 

• Medication 

• Monitoring blood sugar daily and keeping a log of your findings 

• Checking Hemoglobin A1C every 3 months at the doctor’s office 

• Nutrition and Weight Management 

• Exercise 

• Managing Stress 

• Regular visits to Physician 

 

Living with diabetes means making changes to your lifestyle and setting achievable goals. This program, along with your diabetes educator, will help you navigate your way to a healthier life and control your diabetes. 

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