There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is often diagnosed in childhood and involves injecting a hormone called insulin to help regulate your blood sugar levels. Type 2 is often diagnosed in adulthood and is usually monitored through diet and medication; however it may become necessary to take insulin injections as well. Our body uses hormones (insulin and glucagon) to help regulate our body’s blood sugar levels. Diabetes is caused when these hormones do not work as effectively and so fail to maintain a steady blood sugar level. Some of the most common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, increased urination, losing weight without meaning to and feeling very tired.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should see your GP to be tested for diabetes. When the diagnosis has been confirmed, every 3-6 months your doctor will complete a blood test that will monitor your Hba1C levels. This is the average blood sugar level across that time period. Your GP or diabetic nurse will use this figure to help determine what your treatment plan will be. If your sugars are too low you may be at risk of having a hypo (hypoglycaemic attack). It is important to know the symptoms so that you can raise your blood sugar levels quickly and safely.
The main symptoms are sweating, fatigue and dizziness. Usually eating something sweet is sufficient at stopping this attack. High blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) can be just as dangerous and it is important to monitor this as it may mean alterations need to be made to your treatment plan. The main symptoms are: increased thirst, increased urination and unintentional weight loss
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