In the United States, seven million cases of diabetes remain undiagnosed. Another 79 million people suffer from prediabetes, or above-average blood glucose levels that have been associated with several long-term health problems. Here, I provide three basic facts about detecting, managing, and preventing diabetes.

1. Individuals can reduce the risk of developing serious complications by detecting diabetes or prediabetes in the early stages. The symptoms of type 1 diabetes include extreme thirst and hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and frequent urination. These symptoms, along with recurring infections, blurred vision, and numbness in the extremities, can also indicate the presence of type 2 diabetes; however, many individuals with type 2 diabetes often show no symptoms at all. Blood tests to measure glucose levels can detect prediabetes.

2. Although treatment plans will vary according to the individual’s specific needs, diabetes management usually involves glucose monitoring, a healthy meal plan, and medication when necessary. Individuals with diabetes typically check blood sugar levels every day to watch for warning signs of serious complications and adjust their meal plans to best fit their needs. While treating type 1 diabetes requires insulin replacement therapy, delivered via injection or insulin pump, many individuals do not need medication to manage type 2 diabetes. Depending on the case, however, people with type 2 diabetes may need to control their blood glucose levels with insulin, oral medication, or other injectable medications.

3. Because type 2 diabetes results from a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors, individuals can work to prevent this form of diabetes by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Risk factors include being overweight and engaging in low levels of physical activity, so healthy eating and regular exercise can help delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes.

About the author: Based in Miami, Florida, Dr. Robert Aden completed a fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism at New York University Medical Center. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, he holds professional affiliations with the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, and the Endocrine Society.  He is recognized by the American Diabetes Association as a “Provider of Excellence.”

Basic Facts About Diabetes: Explaining the Disease By Dr. Robert Aden (Part 1 of 2)