Diabetes Mellitus: A Simple Guide to Types, Signs and Testing

Diabetes mellitus—often called diabetes—is a long-term condition that affects how the body manages glucose, or blood sugar. Learning the basics can help people ask informed questions and speak with a qualified health professional. Diabetes is not a personal failing, and it can affect people of different ages and backgrounds.

Illustrative photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash.

What happens in diabetes?

Glucose is one of the body’s sources of energy. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose move from the blood into the body’s cells. Diabetes develops when the body does not make enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. As a result, glucose can build up in the bloodstream.

Diabetes has different forms

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system damages the cells that make insulin. It can begin at any age and is not caused by a person’s choices.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not use insulin effectively and, over time, may not make enough. Many factors can influence risk, including family history, age and other aspects of health. It is not simply a matter of willpower.

Gestational diabetes is high blood glucose first recognized during pregnancy. A qualified health professional can explain testing and follow-up during and after pregnancy.

Possible signs—and why they can be easy to miss

Some people notice increased thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision or unexplained weight changes. These signs can have different causes, and they do not confirm diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may develop gradually, and some people have no obvious symptoms.

If you have concerns about symptoms or your health, speak with a qualified health professional. Do not try to diagnose diabetes from symptoms or a single home reading.

How is diabetes assessed?

Health professionals use blood tests to assess blood glucose. Depending on the person’s situation, they may consider tests such as fasting blood glucose, an oral glucose tolerance test or HbA1c, which reflects average blood glucose over roughly the previous few months. The appropriate test and any preparation instructions depend on the individual and the clinician’s advice.

A laboratory report is one part of an assessment. A clinician interprets results alongside health history, symptoms and other relevant information, and can explain whether follow-up is needed.

A supportive next step

Reliable information and a conversation with a qualified health professional can help replace uncertainty with a clearer understanding. If a clinician recommends a test, confirm the exact test and its preparation instructions with them or with the laboratory before your visit.

For general laboratory contact details, visit the Arvix Laboratories Contact Us page.

This article is for general information only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your health.