Diabetes is one of the most common metabolic disorders today, affecting millions of individuals across all age groups worldwide. Although the condition is widespread, there are people who aren’t sure about the meaning of diabetes, how it develops and ways to manage it. Understanding the basics can help patients, families and caregivers to make important health decisions using home monitoring devices and seeking clinical-level care. Further, in this guide, we shall explain diabetes in simple terms, including its types and causes, among others.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or is unable to use it properly. Insulin is a hormone that moves glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. When the same machine does not work correctly, the blood sugar level stays high, leading to long-term health complications.
In simpler terms, the meaning of diabetes refers to a persistent issue with the way the body processes sugar. Glucose levels are generally used in hospitals, clinics and at home using a blood glucose monitoring system: a device that provides quick and accurate readings that support daily disease management.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes, and understanding the differences helps patients choose the right lifestyle approach and treatment plan.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Diabetes occurs in children or young adults but can develop at any age. Symptoms develop over weeks or months, leading to serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires immediate medical care. Type 1 diabetes might require lifelong insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type. It occurs when the body does not produce sufficient ot the cells become insulin resistant. Type 2 diabetes develops gradually and might remain unnoticed for years. It is majorly influenced by lifestyle, genetics, and age. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, oral medications, and insulin therapy.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and resolves after delivery. However, it poses a risk to the baby as it might develop type 2 diabetes in future. Given the fact that symptoms are obvious for everyone, pregnant women are screened between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is an early stage of diabetes where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but do not qualify to be called diabetes. This stage can be reversed with healthy lifestyle changes such as improved diet and increased physical activity.
Type 3c
It develops when the pancreas is damaged by conditions such as chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis, or hemochromatosis. This damage affects the pancreas's ability to produce insulin. Surgical removal of the pancreas (pancreatectomy) can also cause Type 3c diabetes. People with this type may also have issues with digestion due to insufficient pancreatic enzymes.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)
It is a slower-developing diabetes type similar to Type 1. It usually appears in people aged 30 years and above. The LADA causes the immune system to attack insulin-producing cells.
Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY)
Also known as maturity-onset diabetes of the young, the Maturity-onset diabetes of the young arises from inherited genetic mutations that affect insulin production and use. There are over 10 sub-categories of MODY that run across families, affecting up to 5% of people with diabetes.
Neonatal diabetes
As the name suggests, neonatal diabetes occurs in babies within the first 6 months of their birth. Around half the cases are permanent, while the other half are transient, which means they disappear after the initial months but possibly return later in life.
Brittle diabetes
It is the rarest severe form of type 1 diabetes, often characterised by frequent fluctuations in the blood sugar levels. In a few cases, a pancreas transplant becomes necessary for permanent treatment.
Each of these types of diabetes requires different management strategies. However, regular sugar monitoring, medical follow-ups, and understanding diabetes symptoms remain essential in all cases.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Recognising early diabetes symptoms helps seek medical guidance at the earliest. Symptoms might appear slowly, especially in type 2 diabetes or may not appear.
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Sudden increase or decrease in weight
- Persistent fatigue
- Slow healing of cuts or wounds
- Blurred vision
- Increased hunger
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
- Recurring infections
Causes of Diabetes
Genetics
Family history plays an important role when it comes to type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance
The body’s cells stop responding to insulin, further leading to high blood pressure.
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Excess body weight and lack of physical activity are major risk factors.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy
These can lead to gestational diabetes.
Autoimmune response
The immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in type 1 diabetes.
Complications Related to Diabetes
Short-term complications
- Hypoglycemia
- Hyperglycemia
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
Long-term complications
- Heart disease
- Kidney damage
- Nerve damage
- Blurred vision
- Foot ulcers
- Dental issues
How to Treat and Manage Diabetes?
Medication and Insulin Therapy
- Oral antidiabetic medication
- Insulin injections or insulin pumps
- Combination treatments
Daily Blood Sugar Monitoring
A home-use blood pressure monitoring system helps track sugar levels throughout the day.
Healthy Eating
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Vegetables and legumes
- Limited sugary foods
Physical Activity
Regular movement improves insulin sensitivity.
Routine Health Check-ups
Hospitals and clinics use equipment from a medical supply store.
FAQs
What is the difference between high blood sugar and diabetes?
High blood sugar is temporary, but diabetes is a long-term condition.
Do all people with diabetes need insulin?
No. Insulin is essential for type 1 diabetes, while type 2 diabetes may not require it.