| Diabetes
is a disease characterized by too much glucose in the blood. Glucose is
a kind of sugar that the body's cells use for fuel. There are two types
of diabetes; type I and type II. Type I is an insulin dependent diabetes
and it occurs when the body does not produce any insulin. Type II diabetes
is the most common form of diabetes and it occurs when a person does not
make enough insulin or the body does not properly use the insulin that is
made.
Symptoms of diabetes include:
- Weight loss
- Frequent urination
- Very hungry & thirsty
- Trouble with vision
- Tired
- Coma.
If you suspect you may have diabetes or diabetes runs in your family,
discuss this with your physician. He or she can help you determine if
you have diabetes and if you are at risk. Your physician will order a
glucose test and some blood work to determine if you have diabetes. If
you are diagnosed with either type of diabetes your doctor will prescribe
medication. There are many things you can do to assist in controlling
the seriousness of your diabetes. Eating a well balanced diet, exercise,
and checking your blood sugar with the assistance of at home tests will
help you manage your diabetes. Diabetes is serious. But, if you follow
your physician's recommendations and take care of yourself by eating right
and exercising, you can live a long healthy life.
Below are some sites on the WWW selected by the HSA as being worthwhile
sources of information. They should NOT be relied upon for personal diagnosis
or treatment. These sites are provided for general educational aid only,
and should not be relied on as a substitute for consultation with your
physician. If you have questions, please contact your healthcare provider.
HSA does not endorse any of these organizations. This list is not comprehensive.
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