Symptoms of diabetes can vary and, depending on the type, can emerge in weeks or months or take years to develop. Understanding causes and symptoms will help you navigate a diabetes diagnosis. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare is here to help you manage this metabolic disorder and reduce the risk of complications.
Symptoms of Diabetes
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of cuts and wounds
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Pre-diabetes often has no symptoms, and the gradual development of type 2 diabetes can make symptoms hard to spot. If you have any of the diabetes symptoms listed, see your doctor about getting your blood sugar tested.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Having a family history of type 1 or type 2 diabetes increases the risk
- Autoimmune disorders like thyroid disease or celiac disease may increase the risk
- Obesity increases the risk of a diabetes diagnosis
- A sedentary lifestyle contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes
- The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age
Complications and Risks
Potential complications that are associated with diabetes include:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney damage and failure
- Nerve damage and pain
- Eye damage and blindness
Possible long-term risks of uncontrolled diabetes include amputations, cognitive impairment and increased risk of infections. Early detection and management of diabetes can delay complications and risks and help improve quality of life.
Diagnosing Diabetes
Diabetes can be diagnosed several ways and our Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare providers are here to help determine what screenings or tests you may need. Once a diagnosis is made, we provide comprehensive services to help you manage this metabolic disorder and reduce the risk of complications.
Testing for type 1 Diabetes involves:
- Blood tests to measure blood sugar levels and detect autoantibodies
- Urine tests to detect ketones
- Physical examination to assess overall health
Treatment and management for type 1 includes:
- Insulin therapy, which may involve injections or an insulin pump to regulate blood sugar levels
- Regular blood sugar monitoring to ensure levels are within a healthy range
- A balanced diet to manage blood sugar levels
- Physical activity to help regulate blood sugar levels
Testing for type 2 Diabetes involves:
- Blood tests to measure blood sugar levels
- Fasting plasma glucose test
- Oral glucose tolerance test
- Physical examination to assess overall health
Treatment and management for type 2 includes:
- Healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management
- Medications to improve insulin sensitivity or increase insulin production
- Insulin therapy, which may involve injections or an insulin pump if lifestyle changes and medications are not effective
What is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?
- Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder, while type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease
- Type 2 diabetes is often associated with insulin resistance, while type 1 diabetes is characterized by a lack of insulin production
- Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medication, while type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy
- Type 2 diabetes is more common, accounting for about 90% of all diabetes cases, while type 1 diabetes is less common
More Information and Resources
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Methodist Medical Group - Endocrinology
6401 Poplar Avenue, Suite 400
Memphis, TN 38119
901-753-3322
1325 Eastmoreland Avenue, Suite 370
Memphis, TN 38104
901-758-7888