More than 30 million adults in the U.S. have diabetes, and roughly 90% of those diagnosed have type 2 diabetes. Another 84 million are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes within the next five years.

For many adults, type 2 symptoms often develop over time and can go undetected. For Bob Cope, an asthma attack sent him to the hospital. While there, a doctor informed him he had diabetes. Looking back, his symptoms such as fatigue, thirst and a constant need to go to the bathroom all pointed to his diagnosis.

4 types of diabetes

• Type 1 diabetes makes up about 5% of all cases and is often diagnosed during childhood. It occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin and blood sugar can’t be absorbed by cells for use as a source of energy, leading to high blood sugar.
• Type 2 diabetes develops when the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin. Over time, the pancreas can’t make enough insulin to maintain blood sugar levels. Left untreated, high blood sugar levels can lead to heart and kidney disease, among other serious health problems.
• Pre-diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, putting adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes or heart disease unless changes are made through diet and exercise.
• Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition that develops when a woman is pregnant. It occurs in the middle to late stages of pregnancy.

Symptoms

Signs of diabetes can often be hard to spot and commonly aren’t identified until another serious health issue arises. If you have any of the following symptoms, get your blood sugar tested by your doctor.

• Frequent visits to the bathroom
• Constant thirst
• Weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Numb or tingling hands or feet
• Weakness and fatigue 
• Dry skin

How do I know if I have diabetes?

A simple blood test will determine if you have diabetes. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, your doctor can help you customize a treatment plan to help you manage your condition.

Check out the infographic below to learn about ways to manage diabetes. Consider printing and sharing this information with caregivers and loved ones in your life.

Where do I go for support?

Creating healthy habits and a plan for responding to changes in blood sugar levels is key to successfully adjusting to life with type 2 diabetes. Find more resources and answers to your questions on the American Diabetes Association website.

If managing diabetes along with the activities of daily living becomes too much, in-home health care can offer assistance tailored to your unique needs.

Source: www.cdc.gov