long lasting diabetes

Overview

Long-lasting diabetes is a chronic condition where your body cannot properly control blood sugar (glucose) levels. Over time, high blood sugar can damage your heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys. With careful management, most people with diabetes live healthy, full lives.

Yes. Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, and the number is growing. It is one of the most common chronic conditions.

Diabetes can affect anyone at any age, though type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, especially those with excess weight or a family history. Type 1 diabetes often starts in children or young adults.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling very thirsty
• Urinating more often than usual
• Feeling tired or weak
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing cuts or sores

Symptoms in children

• For type 1 diabetes, symptoms can come on quickly. Look out for excessive thirst, frequent urination, sudden weight loss, and severe tiredness.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms may be milder or harder to notice. Older adults may experience confusion, dizziness, or urinary tract infections more often.

Causes

Main causes

• The body does not make enough insulin (a hormone that lowers blood sugar)
• The body does not respond well to insulin (insulin resistance)
• In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells

Risk factors

• Family history of diabetes
• Being overweight or having excess belly fat
• Physical inactivity
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Age over 40

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any emergency symptoms above
• If you notice symptoms of diabetes and feel unwell

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are over 40 and have risk factors, ask for a diabetes check
• If you have a family history, get tested regularly
• If you experience frequent thirst or urination, make an appointment

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose diabetes using a blood test that measures your blood sugar levels. Tests may include fasting blood sugar, HbA1c (a measure of average blood sugar over 3 months), or an oral glucose tolerance test.

Tests that may be done

• HbA1c test
• Fasting plasma glucose test
• Oral glucose tolerance test

What to expect at your appointment

If you are diagnosed, you will be referred to a diabetes care team who will help you learn how to manage the condition and set up a plan that fits your life.

Treatment

Treatment for long-lasting diabetes focuses on keeping blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. This involves a combination of lifestyle changes, daily monitoring, and, for some people, medication. Your healthcare team will personalise your plan.

Self-care at home

• Check your blood sugar as often as your doctor advises
• Take any medication exactly as prescribed
• Eat meals regularly and choose healthier foods
• Be active on most days of the week
• Keep your feet clean, dry, and inspected daily

Medical treatments

Depending on the type and stage of diabetes, treatment may include injections of insulin or other medicines that help lower blood sugar. Some medications are given as tablets, others as injections. Your doctor will decide what is right for you and will adjust doses over time. It is important to never change or stop medication without talking to your healthcare team.

When is surgery considered?

For some people with type 2 diabetes and severe obesity, weight-loss (bariatric) surgery may be an option to improve blood sugar control. This is decided on an individual basis.

Living with this condition

Living with diabetes is a daily job. You will need to balance food, activity, stress, and medication. Most people get used to it and find a routine that works. You can still do everything you want to do with proper planning.

Lifestyle tips

• Build a consistent daily routine
• Learn to recognise and treat low blood sugar
• Get support from family and friends
• Keep a diabetes care diary if helpful

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats helps keep blood sugar steady. Regular physical activity (like brisk walking) helps your body use glucose better. A registered dietitian or diabetes educator can guide you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Diabetes can feel overwhelming, and it's common to feel stressed, anxious, or depressed. Talk to your doctor if your mood is affecting your daily life. Managing your mental health is as important as managing blood sugar.

Prevention

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or prevented with a healthy lifestyle, especially if you are at risk.

Vaccines

People with diabetes have a higher risk of infections, so it's important to stay up to date with recommended vaccines, including flu and COVID-19. Ask your doctor or local clinic.

Screening programmes

If you have risk factors, your doctor may recommend regular blood sugar checks. Early detection helps prevent complications.

Complications

If left untreated

• Heart attack and stroke
• Kidney damage leading to kidney failure
• Nerve damage causing pain or numbness in feet
• Vision loss or retinopathy
• Foot ulcers that may lead to amputation

Long-term outlook

With early detection, good blood sugar control, and regular check-ups, you can reduce the risk of complications dramatically. Many people with long-lasting diabetes live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. The key is to manage the condition actively and seek support when you need it.

Find support

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