Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. With diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin well. Glucose, or sugar, builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:

* Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system attacks and destroys the cells in your pancreas that make insulin. This means your body doesn't make any insulin. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to stay alive.

* Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It's caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and weight. With type 2 diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin well. This means your blood sugar levels can get too high.

Risk Factors for Diabetes

Some people are more likely to get diabetes than others. Risk factors for diabetes include:

* Family history of diabetes

* Being overweight or obese

* Lack of physical activity

* Unhealthy diet

* High blood pressure

* High cholesterol

* Gestational diabetes (diabetes that develops during pregnancy)

Symptoms of Diabetes

Some people with diabetes don't have any symptoms. Others may have symptoms such as:

* Increased thirst

* Frequent urination

* Increased hunger

* Weight loss

* Fatigue

* Blurred vision

* Slow-healing sores

* Frequent infections

Complications of Diabetes

Diabetes can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

* Heart disease

* Stroke

* Kidney disease

* Eye damage

* Nerve damage

* Foot problems

* Skin problems

Treatment for Diabetes

There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed. Treatment for diabetes includes:

* Healthy eating

* Regular physical activity

* Medication (may be needed to lower blood sugar levels)

* Insulin therapy (may be needed to replace insulin that your body doesn't make)

Preventing Diabetes

There is no sure way to prevent diabetes, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

* Maintain a healthy weight

* Get regular physical activity

* Eat a healthy diet

* Quit smoking

* Control your blood pressure

* Control your cholesterol

If you have any of the symptoms of diabetes, see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.