Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the cells in your pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body’s cells use glucose for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in your blood.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin.
High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, is a condition in which the level of glucose in your blood is too high. This can happen if you have diabetes, but it can also happen if you have other medical conditions, such as Cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly.
High blood sugar can damage your blood vessels and nerves over time. This can lead to a variety of complications, including heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and nerve damage.
If you have high blood sugar or diabetes, it is important to manage your condition carefully. This may involve taking medication, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring your blood sugar levels.
Here are some tips for managing high blood sugar and diabetes:
- Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Eat a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It also means limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated and trans fats.
- Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels. This will help you track how your body is responding to your treatment plan and make necessary adjustments.
If you have any questions or concerns about high blood sugar or diabetes, talk to your doctor. They can help you create a management plan that is right for you.