Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. It’s estimated that around 537 million people have diabetes — around 37.3 million people in the U.S. have diabetes. Additionally, roughly 96 million Americans have prediabetes, which means they have higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, but they are not high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
As such, being able to recognize the symptoms of diabetes is important so that you can take steps to manage the condition. To help spread awareness of diabetes, November is National Diabetes Awareness Month.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when the body can’t properly process and use sugar. Sugar is an important source of energy for the body, and the body needs insulin to help process and use sugar. If the body can’t produce enough insulin or is unable to use insulin properly, sugar will build up in the blood and can cause serious health problems.
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is a genetic condition in which the immune system attacks the cells in your body that produce insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is the more common of the two conditions. It occurs when your body can’t produce enough insulin or is unable to use the insulin your body does produce effectively. Type 2 diabetes develops mostly due to lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or obese.
Diabetes can cause several serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and amputation.
The Symptoms of Diabetes
The symptoms of diabetes can vary from person to person and may develop gradually over time. The most common symptoms of diabetes include:
Increased thirst
Dry mouth
Blurry vision
Frequent urination
Weight loss (even though you are eating and feel hungry)
Fatigue (feeling tired all the time)
Labored breathing
Fruit or sweet breath odor
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor in California so that you can be diagnosed and treated for diabetes. For more health awareness information, be sure to visit us at The Benefits Store today.
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