Diabetes is a disease characterized by high blood sugar. Although there are different types of diabetes, in all cases, a person with diabetes is unable to produce the right amount of insulin needed in order to regulate their blood sugar levels. Learn more about each type below:
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. Approximately 5–10% of people with diabetes have type 1.1
Type 2 diabetes can be caused by multiple factors, and may be referred to as “adult onset” or “non-insulin-dependent” diabetes.
Prediabetes occurs when you have a blood sugar level that is higher than normal, and can often lead to type 2 diabetes unless action is taken to prevent it.
Gestational diabetes can develop during pregnancy for those who do not already have diabetes. Blood sugar levels typically return to normal after the baby is born.
Whether their sugar levels are too high or too low, people with diabetes may experience some of these common diabetes symptoms:
Feeling lightheaded
Sweating, chills, and clamminess
Blurred vision
Excessive thirst
Nausea