Frequently Asked Questions about Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease where the body has difficulty turning food into energy.

Why should I worry about my blood sugar?

Often there are no symptoms of high blood sugar until the sugar is very high. Blood sugars that are higher than normal can cause serious, permanent damage to the nerves, eyes, kidney and other organs.

Is it possible to cure diabetes?

Once you have diabetes it does not go away. It can be controlled by keeping the blood sugar near normal.

What are the types of diabetes?

• Type 1- the person's body does not make insulin and requires insulin injections.
• Type 2- the person's body does not make enough insulin or is unable to use the insulin effectively.

How do I control diabetes?

Some people with Type 2 diabetes manage their diabetes by following a meal plan and activity program. Other people need to include diabetes pills and/or insulin. Controlling diabetes depends on a balance of food, activity, stress management, monitoring and sometimes medication.