What Is diabetes?

Let’s cut to the chase, and get right to it! :) What exactly is diabetes? I’m glad that you asked, because there are different types (1, 1.5, 2, 3, gestational, etc) with big differences between each of them.

“Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how the body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for the cells that make up the muscles and tissues. It's also the brain's main source of fuel.

The main cause of diabetes varies by type. But no matter what type of diabetes you have, it can lead to excess sugar in the blood. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to serious health problems.

Chronic diabetes conditions include type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Potentially reversible diabetes conditions include prediabetes and gestational diabetes. Prediabetes happens when blood sugar levels are higher than normal. But the blood sugar levels aren't high enough to be called diabetes. And prediabetes can lead to diabetes unless steps are taken to prevent it. Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy. But it may go away after the baby is born.” - Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371444

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

“Diabetes symptoms depend on how high your blood sugar is. Some people, especially if they have prediabetes, gestational diabetes or type 2 diabetes, may not have symptoms. In type 1 diabetes, symptoms tend to come on quickly and be more severe.

Some of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are:

• Feeling more thirsty than usual.

• Urinating often.

• Losing weight without trying.

• Presence of ketones in the urine. Ketones are a byproduct of the breakdown of muscle and fat that happens when there's not enough available insulin.

• Feeling tired and weak.

• Feeling irritable or having other mood changes.

• Having blurry vision.

• Having slow-healing sores.

• Getting a lot of infections, such as gum, skin and vaginal infections.

Type 1 diabetes can start at any age. But it often starts during childhood or teen years. Type 2 diabetes, the more common type, can develop at any age. Type 2 diabetes is more common in people older than 40. But type 2 diabetes in children is increasing.” - Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371444

If you suspect that you or a loved one might have diabetes, please consult with a doctor. Early detection is important.

What do type 1 diabetics need help with the most?

Type 1 diabetics need help the most with managing blood glucose levels, which requires consistent monitoring and insulin administration, as well as navigating the significant lifestyle changes related to diet, exercise, and mental health. Emotional and social support is also crucial, especially when dealing with the constant demands of the condition and the increased risk of depression and anxiety, notes the American Diabetes Association and Cleveland Clinic. 

Planning ahead makes life with type 1 diabetes much, much easier. Being organized and having all of the supplies and snacks with you that you might need will reduce issues and help with better management and control.

why are you called the numbered one?

I call myself the Numbered One because my life is filled with numbers. Being a type 1 diabetic, I constantly am looking at my blood glucose levels, carbohydrate counting, bolusing, exercise amount of time, and all of the calculations that go along with it. Plus, I’m surrounded by other "normal” day-to-day numbers. Thankfully I like math and numbers! :)

How many diabetics are there in the world today?

There are an estimated 830 million people living with diabetes worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This number has grown significantly from 200 million in 1990 and is predicted to continue rising. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Atlas provides additional data and statistics on the global impact of the disease. 

are you a health professional?

I am not. Not even close. I have lived with type 1 diabetes for 35+ years, so I talk about my experiences and how I manage the disease, but it is not intended for others to follow what I do. Please, PLEASE, talk to your doctor about any changes that you may want to make to your diet or exercise routines, any concerns that you may have, etc. Consult with a healthcare professional.