What is Diabetes Anyway?

For the sake of individuals who are unclear as to what diabetes is, I'll give you a quick explanation. Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes are chronic health conditions that result from having too much sugar in the blood, or what is also known as high blood sugar. Diabetes is basically a person's inability to regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 Diabetes more specifically is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin. While, Type 2 Diabetes is a condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar on a cellular level.

The symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes are the same and consist of the following: excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, tingling or numbness in the hands and legs, blurred vision, fatigue, and unusually itchy or dry skin. Although, in some instances, it is entirely possible for individuals not to show signs at all.

These chronic health conditions take a lot of getting used to and can become very burdensome over time. While there are many articles written and support groups created, more needs to be done to help individuals, parents and caregivers of those coping with diabetes. Especially if you are like me and do not have many resources in your area. When you work 40 hours a week, have a family or some semblance of a social life you might not have the time to drive an hour away to a support group or therapist.