diabeetes

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. This occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter cells for energy, or when the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin.

There are several main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This typically develops in children and young adults and requires lifelong insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases. It often develops gradually and is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells don't use insulin effectively, and eventually, the pancreas may not be able to produce enough insulin to keep up. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, but it increases the risk of both mother and child developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type and severity, but commonly include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. If left unmanaged, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious long-term complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests measuring glucose levels. Management involves lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and for some, medication or insulin therapy.