Diabetes

1. What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly use or produce enough insulin, leading to high blood sugar (glucose) levels.

  1. Type 1 Diabetes – The immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

  2. Type 2 Diabetes – The body cannot use insulin properly (insulin resistance) or doesn’t produce enough insulin.

  3. Gestational Diabetes – Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.

  4. Pre-diabetes – Blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet diabetes.

  • Frequent urination

  • Excessive thirst and hunger

  • Unexplained weight loss (more in type 1)

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Blurred vision

  • Slow-healing wounds

  • Frequent infections (skin, gums, urinary tract)

  • Type 1: Insulin therapy + healthy lifestyle

  • Type 2: Lifestyle changes + oral medicines (Metformin, etc.) ± insulin if needed

  • Gestational: Diet, exercise, sometimes insulin

  • All types: Regular monitoring of blood sugar, diet control, exercise, stress management

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Eat a balanced diet (low sugar, high fiber)

  • Exercise regularly (30 minutes daily)

  • Avoid smoking and excess alcohol

  • Regular health check-ups, especially if at risk