diabetes risks and benefits for patients

Overview

Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Normally, your body makes a hormone called insulin that helps sugar from food get into your cells to be used as fuel. With diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use it well, so sugar builds up in your blood.

Yes. Diabetes is very common around the world. Millions of people live with it every day.

Diabetes can affect anyone, at any age. Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, especially after age 45, but younger people can also develop it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling very thirsty
• Urinating more often than usual
• Feeling very tired
• Blurred vision
• Cuts or sores that are slow to heal
• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet

Symptoms in children

• Wetting the bed, especially in a child who usually stays dry at night
• Losing weight without trying
• Being more hungry or thirsty than usual
• Feeling very tired or irritable

Symptoms in older adults

• Feeling confused or dizzy
• Urinating more at night
• Feeling very thirsty or dehydrated
• Tiredness or weakness
• Slowly healing wounds

Causes

Main causes

• Type 1 diabetes: the body's immune system attacks the cells that make insulin, so little or no insulin is produced.
• Type 2 diabetes: the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not make enough to keep blood sugar normal.
• Gestational diabetes: occurs during pregnancy when hormones make it harder for the body to use insulin.

Risk factors

• Having a family history of diabetes
• Being overweight or living with obesity
• Being over age 45
• Being physically inactive
• Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Having had gestational diabetes or given birth to a baby weighing over 4 kg (9 lb)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have symptoms of high blood sugar like extreme thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss, see a doctor soon.
• If you have symptoms of low blood sugar like confusion, sweating, and feeling shaky, get help quickly.
• If you have a wound that becomes red, swollen, or painful, seek care the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have risk factors for diabetes, ask your doctor about getting tested at your next check-up.
• If you already have diabetes, see your doctor regularly to monitor your blood sugar, blood pressure, and kidney health.

Diagnosis

Doctors use simple blood tests to check your blood sugar levels. These tests can tell if your blood sugar is normal, if you are at risk, or if you have diabetes.

Tests that may be done

• A fasting blood sugar test: checks your sugar after you haven't eaten for several hours.
• A HbA1c test: gives an average of your blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.
• An oral glucose tolerance test: measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sweet drink.

What to expect at your appointment

A healthcare provider will take a small blood sample from your arm or finger. The results may come the same day or within a few days. Your doctor will explain what the numbers mean and, if needed, talk about next steps for treatment and support.

Treatment

Diabetes is managed with a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, regular monitoring, and, when needed, medicines. The goal is to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range to prevent complications and allow you to live a full life.

Self-care at home

• Check your blood sugar as often as your doctor advises and keep a record.
• Take any prescribed medicines exactly as directed.
• Look after your feet daily: wash, dry, and check for cuts or blisters.
• Visit your dentist regularly and tell them you have diabetes.
• Learn to recognise the signs of high and low blood sugar and what to do.

Medical treatments

If healthy eating and activity are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines to help control blood sugar. Some people need a medicine called insulin, which is given by injection. Others may use tablets or other injectable medicines. Your doctor will explain your options, how they work, and how to take them. Never stop or change your medicine without talking to your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a common treatment for diabetes itself. In some cases of type 2 diabetes, weight-loss surgery may be considered to improve blood sugar and overall health, but this is only for certain people. Discuss with your diabetes care team whether this might be appropriate for you.

Living with this condition

Living with diabetes involves a routine that helps you stay well. This may include checking blood sugar, eating balanced meals, staying active, and taking medicine if prescribed. Over time, this routine becomes a normal part of daily life.

Lifestyle tips

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days, like walking or swimming.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, hobbies, or talking to a friend.
• Get enough sleep and try to keep a regular sleep schedule.
• If you smoke, ask your doctor for help quitting.
• Limit alcohol and avoid sugary drinks.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet is key. Focus on vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Try to eat at regular times and avoid large amounts of sugar. Pair your meals with regular exercise to help your body use blood sugar more effectively. A dietitian can help create a meal plan that fits your life.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with diabetes can feel overwhelming at times. You may feel stressed, worried, or sad. These feelings are normal. It's important to talk to your doctor if you are struggling emotionally, and to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength.

Prevention

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. But type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed by keeping a healthy weight, staying physically active, and eating a balanced diet. If you are at risk, small changes can make a big difference.

Vaccines

People with diabetes are more likely to get infections, so staying up to date with recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines, is important. Ask your doctor which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

If you have risk factors for diabetes, regular blood sugar checks can catch problems early. Talk to your doctor about how often you should be screened.

Complications

If left untreated

• Heart disease and high blood pressure
• Kidney damage
• Nerve damage, which can cause pain or loss of feeling, especially in your feet
• Vision problems and even blindness
• Slow-healing wounds that may lead to serious infections

Long-term outlook

The outlook for diabetes is better than ever. With good management, many people live long, active, and healthy lives. Controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol – along with regular check-ups – greatly lowers your risk of complications. Every step you take to care for yourself counts.

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