There are two main types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is usually diagnosed during childhood and occurs because the body is unable to make enough insulin. If treated and monitored properly, this type of diabetes can be well controlled. If it is not treated properly, the disease can progress and complications can arise. Type 2 diabetes can occur at any age. It is the most common form and can occur as a result of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. If you are concerned about or at risk for type 2 diabetes, it is important to understand all you can about this condition. Learning about the risk factors, and taking steps to manage the ones you can, will help put you in control of your health. This, along with understanding the progression of type 2 diabetes, will help you talk to your doctor about the best treatment options.
Prediabetes
According to the American Diabetes Association, almost everyone who will be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes develops prediabetes first. If you can catch the disease at this stage, you can take steps to prevent getting diabetes. Prediabetes is diagnosed when blood sugar levels are starting to get high. A doctor can order a fasting blood glucose test or use an oral test to determine blood sugar levels. You may be diagnosed with prediabetes if your fasting blood sugar is between 101 mg/dl and 126 mg/dl. The oral test would need to be between 141 mg/dl and 200 mg/dl to warrant a diagnosis of prediabetes.
Diabetes Type 2
According to the American Diabetes Association, being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes means either your body does not make enough insulin or your cells cannot use the insulin properly. After a meal, the body must break down the sugars and starches and convert them to glucose. Glucose is the main source of fuel for the body. Next, insulin transports the glucose to the cells. If not enough insulin is present or the body cannot use it, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. This leads to diabetes. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dl or above on several tests may lead to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Patients need to adopt healthy lifestyle habits and check their blood sugar level often to avoid complications.
Advanced Diabetes
An advanced case of diabetes can develop if the disease is not well controlled. Having too much glucose in the bloodstream for prolonged periods can damage the heart, liver, kidneys, eyes, nerves and other organs. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse says damage caused by diabetes can lead to heart attacks, strokes, blindness, amputations, kidney and liver failure and even death.
