Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. In 2007, diabetes cost the United States $174 billion. Diabetes affects approximately 17 million people or approximately 8 percent of the population in the United States. Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when insulin is not utilized properly in the muscles, liver and fat cells. Gestational diabetes is caused by pregnancy hormones or a shortage of insulin.
Increased Thirst and Hunger
When sugar builds up in the bloodstream, it causes fluid to be pulled from the tissues. As a result, a person may experience increased thirst, and drinking more fluids may contribute to more frequent urination. Also, without enough insulin, cells are not able to utilize sugar as energy, which can trigger intense hunger as glucose is needed.
Weight Loss
Despite having an increased appetite with increased amounts of foods and fluids consumed, weight loss may occur with diabetes. Without the ability to utilize glucose, the body will metabolize muscles and fat for fuel. Calories are also lost as glucose is released in the urine.
Elevated Glucose Level
A fasting blood glucose test measures blood glucose and assists with diagnosing diabetes. People with a fasting glucose level of 100 to 125 milligrams per deciliter have a form of pre-diabetes. People with a level of 126 milligrams per deciliter or higher after an eight hour fast are also determined to have diabetes. This may be confirmed with a repeat test the following day. A diabetes diagnosis can also be determined from a blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher two hours after drinking a beverage containing 75 grams of glucose dissolved in water. A random blood glucose test can also be performed in which a level of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with the presence of diabetes symptoms, can determine a diabetes diagnosis. A woman has gestational diabetes when she has a fasting plasma glucose of more than 95 mg/dl, a one-hour glucose level of more than 180 mg/dl, a two-hour glucose level of more than 155 mg/dl, or a three-hour glucose level of more than 140 mg/dl.
Fatigue
Fatigue can be another clinical characteristic of diabetes. It can cause a person to feel tired and irritable when the body's cells are deprived of sugar .
Skin Discoloration
Some people who develop diabetes (typically type 2 diabetes) have patches of dark, velvety skin in the folds and creases of their body. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, may be a sign of insulin resistance.
