Diabetes Information
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 continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.
There are 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 17.9 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 5.7 million people (or nearly one quarter) are unaware that they have the disease.
Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.
Some symptoms of diabetes include:
- Frequent Urination
- Excessive Thirst
- Extreme Hunger
- Unusual Weight Loss
- Increased Fatigue
- Irritability
- Blurry Vision
If you have one or more of these symptoms, see your doctor right away. All providers at LCHS are able to diagnose and treat diabetes. The screening is done with a simple blood test.
