Diabetes Awareness - What is Diabetes?

You likely know someone who has diabetes, as an estimated 10.5% of the US population currently has a form of the disease. But what exactly is diabetes?

There are three different types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. All types of diabetes have something in common: the body has trouble processing carbohydrates from your food. Normally, the body is able to turn carbohydrates into glucose (sugar) that the body’s cells can use as energy. When you have diabetes, your body has a harder time using the glucose for fuel. The glucose stays in your blood for too long which can cause long-term damage to your body.

The different types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes - an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the pancreas. Eventually the pancreas becomes so damaged that it can no longer make insulin, and daily supplementation of insulin is required. Type 1 used to be called “juvenile diabetes” because it is usually diagnosed in children and teens.

Type 2 diabetes - insulin no longer works as well, and your body has trouble moving glucose from the blood vessels into cells, which is called ‘insulin resistance’. The pancreas responds by sending more and more insulin, and over time can become damaged as a result. Too much sugar is left in your blood which damages the body and can cause heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, and other serious health issues. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes insulin supplementation. This is the most common type of diabetes.

Gestational diabetes - pregnancy temporarily causes insulin resistance and other issues in the regulation of glucose and insulin. Treatment includes monitoring how many carbohydrates are eaten, physical activity, and sometimes medication and insulin supplementation. It is usually resolved after pregnancy, but sometimes will turn into prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common type of diabetes in the United States. Treatment includes eating meals that are balanced, getting regular physical activity, managing stress levels, and taking any medications that are prescribed by your provider.

All One Community Health providers are trained to help you manage your diagnosis of diabetes. Our Salud Team of Registered Nurse - Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and Community Health Workers are also here to help you manage your diagnosis. To schedule an appointment with our Diabetes team, please call our clinic at 541.386.6380 and ask to be scheduled with the Salud Team.