Learn to spot early warning signs of diabetes—from fatigue and thirst to skin changes—so you can catch it early and manage it effectively.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Diabetes is a metabolic disease; it is also termed diabetes mellitus. It is a long-term health condition. There are three different types. Diabetes 1 occurs when the body does not produce any insulin. Insulin is needed to regulate blood sugar levels. Diabetes 2 occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin. Gestational diabetes may affect females during pregnancy. High blood sugar levels lead to polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (increased thirst) and polyphagia (increased hunger).

Pre-diabetes is a condition where the cells in the body are becoming insulin resistant. Insulin injections, a special diet, and exercise are used to treat Diabetes 1, the second type is more common, and treated with tablets, following a special diet, and insulin injections may be needed, but are not a daily treatment. People with diabetes may develop secondary health problems - eye complications, such as diabetic retinopathy, hypertension, foot complications, hearing loss and many health risks increase with diabetes. The body also heals much more slowly.

Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

Diabetes

12 Warning Signs of Diabetes

12. Darkened skin in certain areas

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