General Info

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes is unknown, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. Symptoms of Diabetes Half of all Americans who have diabetes are not aware they have the disease and some people have no symptoms at all. A simple blood sugar test only takes a few minutes and gives you immediate results. Symptoms of diabetes can include: Extreme thirst Weakness Itchy skin Skin infections Blurred vision Fatigue Intense hunger Irritability Fast weight loss Frequent urination Nausea and vomiting Numbness or tingling in extremities It is important to know if you have diabetes so you can take good care of yourself and prevent complications. Are you at risk for diabetes? Take the diabetes risk test developed by the American Diabetes Association to find out.