Diabetes or hyperglycemia is when insulin and glucose levels in the blood are imbalanced. Insulin regulates glucose levels by converting glucose into energy which cells use as fuel. If glucose is not properly converted, damage to organs and other complications can occur.

An elevated sugar level or glucose level is the definition of diabetes. The body uses insulin to regulate glucose levels, so when insulin cannot perform its job properly, complications of the disease occur. Common symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst and frequent urination.

Here are the two forms of diabetes:

Type 1: This form of diabetes is genetic and is commonly diagnosed in children. In this case, the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin. Type 2: This form of diabetes is metabolic and is the result of the proper production of insulin, but the body is resistant to it.

Both types cause increased glucose in the blood that must be monitored daily.

Anyone who has family members diagnosed with diabetes, is overweight or leads a sedentary lifestyle is at risk for this disease.

What are the signs and symptoms of diabetes?

Diabetes has many varying symptoms and not everyone will experience them. Some of the most common signs include:

- Headache, irritability, extreme thirst, frequent urination and non healing wounds.

The body tries to protect itself by getting rid of the excess glucose through the kidneys. This results in frequent urination which then leads to dehydration. Dehydration cause headache and excessive thirst just as it does as a result of a hangover.

Living a sedentary lifestyle and being overweight are risk factors for development of the disease.

How Do I Get Diagnosed?

Knowing the symptoms is the first step, as well as learning what your risk factors are. If you suspect that you may have this condition, there are diagnostic tests that your doctor can administer to determine if you indeed have the disease. How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Your doctor will order diagnostic testing that tests your blood for glucose levels. Normal blood glucose is between 70 mg/dl-125 mg/dl.

What Is the Treatment for Diabetes?

Treatments for diabetes include dietary changes, exercise 3 to 4 times a week, daily monitoring of glucose levels and insulin injections by syringe, pump or prefilled pens.

The goal of treatment is to control glucose levels within the normal range to prevent complications and slow the progression of the disease.

Barb Hicks is a licensed registered nurse who loves to share her knowledge about Diabetes Cure and Prevention. She has an online classroom at Clivir.com where you can find more of her articles about Hypoglycemia Symptoms.