What Is Diabetes? Symptoms and Treatment

Diabetes – what is it, what are the symptoms and what is the treatment?

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world today. According to estimates, it affects more than 500 million people globally, and that number is steadily rising. Often mistakenly considered a minor ailment associated only with elevated blood sugar levels, diabetes is in fact a serious metabolic disorder. If left untreated or poorly controlled, it can lead to dangerous complications affecting many organs and systems in the body.

In this article, we explain what diabetes is, what symptoms it causes, how it is diagnosed and treated, and what you can do to prevent it.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease resulting from abnormalities in the secretion or action of insulin—a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin enables glucose (sugar) to enter cells, where it is used as a source of energy. When there is not enough insulin or the body’s cells become resistant to it, sugar accumulates in the bloodstream instead of being absorbed into the cells. This leads to chronic hyperglycemia, or consistently high blood glucose levels.

Prolonged hyperglycemia is dangerous—it damages blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs, and increases the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and diabetic foot ulcers.

Normal Blood Glucose Levels – What Do the Numbers Mean?

Blood glucose levels can vary depending on age, time of day, and when the last meal was consumed. Below are general reference values for fasting blood glucose (measured in mmol/L):

It’s important to note that blood sugar naturally rises after eating—especially after meals rich in carbohydrates. In healthy individuals, insulin ensures that glucose is quickly taken up by cells, returning blood sugar to normal. In people with diabetes, this process is impaired, and blood glucose remains elevated for extended periods.

Types of Diabetes

There are several different forms of diabetes, each with distinct causes, course, and treatment options. The most common types include:

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body cannot produce insulin. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children or young adults, but it can also appear later in life. People with this condition require lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes

The most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 85–90% of all cases. In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to its action (insulin resistance). This type usually develops in adults, especially those who are overweight or obese and lead sedentary lifestyles. Treatment involves lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.

Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is caused by hormonal changes that reduce insulin sensitivity. It usually resolves after childbirth but significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Secondary (Symptomatic) Diabetes

This form of diabetes is caused by damage to the pancreas or its cells due to another disease or condition—such as pancreatitis, tumors, hormonal disorders, or the use of certain medications and toxins.

What Causes Diabetes?

The causes of diabetes are complex and vary depending on the type of disease. However, several key factors increase the risk:

• Genetic predisposition – a family history of diabetes increases risk

• Autoimmune processes – in type 1 diabetes

• Overweight and obesity, especially abdominal fat

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Unhealthy diet, high in processed foods and sugar

• Chronic stress – prolonged elevated cortisol levels disrupt glucose regulation

• Lack of sleep

• Pancreatic damage – e.g. from inflammation, surgery, or trauma

• Hormonal disorders – including thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary gland diseases

In type 2 diabetes, the combination of poor diet, excess weight, and lack of exercise plays a dominant role.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Diabetes can present with a wide range of symptoms. The intensity and nature of these symptoms depend on the type and stage of the disease. Common signs include:

• Excessive thirst

• Frequent urination (especially at night)

• Sudden weight loss (type 1) or weight gain (type 2)

• Increased hunger

• Chronic fatigue, weakness

• Blurred vision

• Dry mouth

• Itchy skin, especially around the genitals

• Frequent infections (especially fungal and urinary)

• Slow wound healing

• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet

In many people, especially with type 2 diabetes, the disease can progress for years without noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular blood sugar screening is so important, especially for people at risk.

How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?

To diagnose diabetes, a doctor may order one or more of the following tests:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test – measured after at least 8 hours of fasting

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) – involves drinking a sugary solution and measuring glucose levels over time

• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) – reflects the average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months

If results are borderline, additional testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Diabetes Treatment

Effective diabetes management requires a comprehensive approach. The primary goals are to normalize blood sugar levels, prevent complications, and maintain the highest possible quality of life.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Diet plays a key role in the treatment of all types of diabetes. Patients are advised to:

• Eat regularly (every 3–4 hours)

• Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks

• Consume high-fiber foods (vegetables, whole grains, legumes)

• Choose lean protein and healthy fats

• Limit portion sizes

• Stay physically active (e.g. 30 minutes of brisk walking daily)

• Get enough sleep and manage stress

2. Medications

• Type 1 diabetes: Requires daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump

• Type 2 diabetes: Initially treated with lifestyle changes and oral medications (e.g. metformin); insulin may be needed later

• Gestational diabetes: Usually controlled with diet and exercise, but sometimes insulin is necessary

The choice of treatment depends on the type of diabetes, disease progression, other medical conditions, and individual patient needs.

3. Monitoring Blood Sugar

Diabetics must regularly monitor their blood sugar levels using:

• Glucometers (finger-prick devices)

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems

• Periodic HbA1c testing

This helps to adjust treatment and detect dangerous fluctuations.

Complications of Untreated or Poorly Controlled Diabetes

If blood sugar remains elevated for long periods, it can lead to serious complications, including:

• Heart attack and stroke

• Kidney failure (diabetic nephropathy)

• Blindness (diabetic retinopathy)

• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

• Foot ulcers, infections, and amputations

• Erectile dysfunction

• Increased risk of infections

With proper care and regular medical checkups, many of these complications can be prevented or significantly delayed.

Prevention – Can Diabetes Be Avoided?

Type 1 diabetes currently cannot be prevented, but type 2 diabetes often can. Key strategies include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced, low-glycemic diet

• Exercising regularly

• Getting enough sleep and managing stress

• Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol

• Monitoring blood sugar if at risk (family history, obesity, etc.)

Early diagnosis and proactive action can delay or even prevent the onset of diabetes-related complications.

Summary

Diabetes is a serious and widespread disease, but with proper care, patients can live long and fulfilling lives. Early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and ongoing medical supervision are key to controlling the disease and avoiding complications. If you notice symptoms of diabetes or are in a risk group, do not delay seeing a doctor. Timely testing and proper treatment significantly improve prognosis and quality of life.

To make an appointment with an endocrinologist at Mediss Medical, call 888 300 301 or use the online registration