The simple facts on how to deal with diabetes

Simply put, diabetes is a condition in which the cells of your body can't absorb glucose from your bloodstream. Glucose, or blood sugar, is the basic fuel every cell needs to operate. Here are a some basic facts about diabetes, how it's caused, and how to lead a full and healthy life with it.

• Roughly five percent of diabetes cases are caused by a pancreas that cannot make the insulin cells needed to allow the glucose to enter. This is Type 1 diabetes. It is usually diagnosed in childhood.
• The other 95 percent of diabetes is caused in large part by lifestyle factors like obesity, unhealthy eating, stress, and sedentary living. These and other factors cause cells to lose their ability to absorb glucose. This is Type 2 diabetes. It typically shows up after the age of 40.

As soon as you've been diagnosed, work with your doctor to map out a diabetes action plan. Call on other specialists as needed to help you manage food, fitness, vision, and foot care.

• Several lab tests help you and your doctor monitor your progress and well-being.
• Self-testing your blood regularly is easier than ever and is key to helping you keep your blood sugar under control.
• A medication plan tailored for you is essential for controlling your diabetes. Understand what you're taking and how and when to take it.
• People with diabetes often deal with depression, which worsens your ability to cope with diabetes. Learn the signals, talk to your doctor, and get treatment.

Diabetes can lead to several complications if not well-managed. However, careful blood sugar control can greatly reduce risk.

• People with diabetes should keep close watch on their cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure measures. High levels of any greatly increase the risk of heart disease.
• High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye, leading to various vision problems. Regular eye exams are critical for people with diabetes to catch any damage early.
• Chronic pain is a common result of nerves damaged by diabetes.
• Feet are particularly vulnerable to nerve and blood vessel damage if you have diabetes, so checking them every evening before bed should become routine.

Researchers are getting closer and closer to more effective treatments for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. These range from better forms of insulin to high-tech fixes for a faulty pancreas.

• Researchers also are working hard to understand the underlying causes of diabetes. Their focus is on genes that could influence weight; hormones that regulate appetite; and even the role of milk on a child's pancreas.
• At the same time, researchers are focused on understanding the causes and cures of obesity. One goal is safer weight-loss drugs and medical procedures.
• As people with diabetes age, they naturally become more susceptible to complications. But regular exercise, good nutrition, and a positive attitude are as effective at reducing diabetes risks in your sixties, seventies, and eighties as they are at younger ages.

While research continues on finding a cure, people who suffer from diabetes can still live normal lives as long they manage their blood sugar levels properly.