Diabetes is a chronic disease that causes high blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use insulin properly.
What causes diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes : The pancreas produces little or no insulin.
Type 2 diabetes : The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin.
Gestational diabetes : The placenta releases hormones that cause insulin resistance, and the pancreas can't produce enough insulin to overcome it.
What are the complications of diabetes?
Heart and blood vessel disease : Diabetes can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Nerve damage : Too much sugar in the blood can damage the blood vessels that feed the nerves, especially in the legs.
Kidney damage : Diabetes can damage the kidneys, which filter waste from the blood.
Eye damage : Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to blindness.
Foot damage : Nerve damage or poor blood flow to the feet can increase the risk of foot complications.
Skin and mouth conditions : Diabetes can make you more prone to skin and mouth infections.
Pregnancy complications : High blood sugar levels can be dangerous for both the parent and the baby.