What is Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease in which the body either does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that helps the body use glucose to produce the energy needed for daily life. When insulin is not produced or used properly glucose builds up in the blood and may lead to complications.
It is estimated that 18.2 million people, or 6.3% of the United States population, has diabetes. About 13 million cases have already been diagnosed; however, 5.2 million people are still unaware that they have this disease.
People who think they have diabetes might have SOME of the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
- Extreme hunger (polyphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Dry, itchy skin
- Frequent infections or slow wound healing
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then you should discuss them with your physician. It is important to understand that you may still have diabetes and not experience any of these symptoms.
