Symptoms

• Finding out that you have diabetes can be a life-changing event. Getting the diagnosis means an alternation in diet and exercise. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to the early signs that you might have diabetes. Some of the early onset symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst, dizziness and sudden weight loss or gain. If any of these symptoms occur, it is best to contact your physician so you can get the proper diagnosis and treatment.
  
  

Type I and Type II Diabetes

• Diabetes falls into several categories. The two main types of diabetes are Type I and Type II. Type I diabetes is the most severe form. This type results in almost no insulin production in the body. In order for people with Type I diabetes to survive, they must take an insulin shot every day. Type II is more common, but not as severe. People with Type II are able to produce insulin, but the body has a difficult time using it. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood.
  
  

Gestational Diabetes

• Gestational diabetes is specifically related to pregnancy. It can occur in the later stages of pregnancy and can often be a temporary condition that retreats after the birth of the child. A major risk, however, is that women who develop this type of diabetes during pregnancy are more prone to develop Type II diabetes later in life. The best way to avoid this circumstance is to maintain a healthy diet and do moderate exercise during the pregnancy.
  
  

Diagnosis

• If you believe you may have diabetes, speaking with your physician is imperative. The physician will most likely run what is referred to as a blood glucose test. A variation on the test can either be administered after a fast, or two hours after drinking a beverage. This involves measuring blood glucose levels. An individual will receive a positive diagnosis of diabetes if he has a blood glucose level of 126 mg or higher. If the test is given after drinking a beverage, a positive diagnosis would be 200 mg.
  
  

Prevention and Management

• Many cases of diabetes are related to genetics and hereditary factors. Although these circumstances can't be entirely prevented, they can be managed. If you know diabetes is a high risk for your family background, the best first step to take is scheduling an appointment with your doctor to determine if you are at risk. For those currently diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to eat a healthy diet that avoids foods high in sugar and some other carbohydrates. Incorporating exercise into the daily routine is also a great way to keep a manageable weight. Finally, it is important to take medication on a daily basis to give the body what it needs.