What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic (long-term) illness that affects the way our bodies use glucose. Glucose, also known as blood sugar, is the body’s key source of energy for the brain, muscles, and a variety of other organs and tissues. The glucose in our bodies comes from the food we eat. When we eat, our stomach and intestines breakdown food into glucose and send it into the bloodstream where it is carried to our cells. Glucose cannot get into cells on its own. It needs insulin. Insulin is a hormone created by the pancreas that acts like a key that opens up cells so that glucose may enter. We all need glucose for energy. However, there are instances where the glucose in our blood cannot be used effectively because there are problems with the amount of insulin in the body. In people with diabetes, glucose has trouble getting into the cells, and it accumulates in the blood –especially after you eat. Diabetes is serious! Overtime, high blood glucose levels pose significant threats to our health and can cause many health problems like heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, foot sores, and amputations. However, with the right treatment and care, people with diabetes can live healthy lives!

There are 4 different types of diabetes. Take a look at the graphic below for an overview of Type1, Type 2, Gestational, and Prediabetes:

Now is the time to take charge of your health! To learn more about the Public Health services specific to diabetes management, call our team at (575)834-7207.