INFOGRAPHIC

What Is Diabetes?

Reviewed by Claudia Levi, R.N.
December 30, 2024
diabetes noun A chronic disease that occurs when the body’s blood sugar levels are too high because it doesn’t make enough insulin or use insulin well

Diabetes refers to several conditions that occur when blood sugar (also called blood glucose) levels are too high. The most common forms of diabetes are type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.

  • Type 1 diabetes occurs because the body makes little or no insulin (a hormone that helps the body absorb glucose), resulting in high blood sugar levels. Someone with type 1 diabetes needs daily insulin injections.
  • Type 2 diabetes occurs because the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use its insulin properly, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

Some of the symptoms of diabetes can include:

  • Needing to urinate frequently, especially at night
  • Excessive thirst and hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Blurry vision
  • Numbness in the hands and feet
  • Slow healing of infections and sores

Over time, diabetes can lead to certain health complications such as heart damage, kidney damage, and issues with the feet and eyes. If you have diabetes, it’s important to manage your blood sugar to help you feel your best now and in the long term. Talk to your doctor about your diabetes management options, such as medication, exercise, and diet changes.