Important Signs of Diabetes + Prevention Tips

Diabetes is a very common condition that directly impacts more than one-third of Americans. Roughly 133 million people nationwide are experiencing diabetes or prediabetes, according to the National Institutes of Health. It's why EvergreenHealth has developed expert resources for our community, earning recognition as a leader for caring for individuals with diabetes.

Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are too high. Insulin, a hormone that is made in your pancreas, helps break down blood glucose and help your cells absorb it for energy.

When you have diabetes, your body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use insulin properly, causing blood glucose to build up, which can cause damage to your eyes, kidneys, heart and even your feet.

Types of Diabetes

There are various types of diabetes, but the two most common are type 1 and type 2.

• Type 1 diabetes is when your immune system attacks the cells in your pancreas that create insulin. It is unpreventable and most often develops at a young age, but it can be diagnosed at any age. Type 1 diabetes can most often be treated effectively by taking insulin daily.
• Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is characterized by your body not using insulin properly. Type 2 diabetes is preventable, and it's important to know the risk factors. It can be treated through medications to lower blood glucose levels and lifestyle changes.

Prediabetes is a condition in which your blood glucose levels may be higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Signs & Symptoms

There are several symptoms that may be a sign you or a loved one have diabetes, including:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Numbness or tingling in the feet or hands

For type 1 diabetes, these symptoms often develop very quickly, while type 2 symptoms will develop more slowly over time. Some individuals with type 2 diabetes may not have any symptoms and don't learn they have diabetes until they experience a diabetes-related health condition like a heart or kidney issue.

Type 2 diabetes is more likely to develop in individuals who are physically inactive, overweight or obese. Obesity, especially extra belly fat, can cause insulin resistance, which leads to type 2 diabetes.

Ethnicity can also be a risk factor for diabetes, being most commonly diagnosed in individuals of African American, Native American, Asian American, Pacific Islander and Hispanic descent. Additionally, damage to the pancreas can cause diabetes since it can harm the cells that create insulin.

Talk to an EvergreenHealth diabetes educator by calling 425-899-4030 or filling out a contact form.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

There is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes, but there are plenty of strategies to prevent or delay type 2:

• Lose Weight: If you're at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, your doctor may suggest working on losing some weight. This could mean losing only 5-7% of your current body weight.
• Get Moving: Make sure you are getting your daily exercise in. This means getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity in 5 days a week.
• Adopt a Healthy Diet: Try to eat smaller portions to reduce your caloric intake each day, helping you lose weight more effectively. Picking foods low in fat and drinking unsweetened beverages can also help you reduce the among of calories you eat each day. EvergreenHealth's Diabetes Education & Nutrition team can help you learn more about the disease and help get you on the right path to prevention and treatment.

If you or a loved one is experiencing diabetes or at risk, EvergreenHealth Diabetes & Endocrinology Care can help you with comprehensive treatments for anyone with diabetes or metabolic conditions.