What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a long-term health condition that happens when your blood sugar (glucose) level becomes too high.
This occurs because:
- The body does not produce enough insulin, or
- The body cannot use the insulin it produces properly.
Insulin is the hormone that helps move sugar from the blood into the cells for energy. When insulin doesn’t work as it should, sugar builds up in the blood — leading to serious health problems.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Be alert if you notice:
✅ Frequent urination
✅ Constant thirst or hunger
✅ Unexplained weight loss
✅ Feeling weak or tired often
✅ Blurred vision
✅ Wounds that heal slowly
These are early warning signs. If you experience them, visit a nearby health facility for a blood sugar test.
Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes
If diabetes is not treated early or properly managed, it can lead to:
- Stroke or heart disease
- Kidney failure
- Nerve damage and amputations
- Vision problems or blindness
These can all be prevented with early detection and proper management.
Prevention and Healthy Living Tips
You can reduce your risk of developing diabetes by:
🍎 Eating a balanced diet – cut down on sugary foods, soft drinks, and fried foods.
🏃🏽♀️ Exercising regularly – at least 30 minutes of walking, dancing, or any physical activity daily.
💧 Staying hydrated – drink enough water and limit alcohol intake.
🩸 Checking your sugar levels – get screened regularly, especially if diabetes runs in your family.
🩺 Visiting the hospital for regular checkups – early detection saves lives.
Conclusion
Diabetes is not a death sentence. With the right lifestyle changes, medical guidance, and regular checkups, you can live a long and healthy life.
Let’s create more awareness — because prevention is always better and cheaper than treatment.