A person with diabetes has too much glucose (sugar) in the blood and not enough in the body’s cells. The symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are similar. With Type 1 diabetes, the body stops producing insulin, creating high glucose levels, because the insulin-producing cells have been destroyed.
In Type 2 diabetes, the body’s cells become resistant to the insulin that is being produced. Either way, your body sends out warning signs or symptoms to let you know your cells aren’t getting the glucose they need. Parents often ‘overdiagnose’ diabetes in their children. Just drinking a lot or dry, itchy skin alone is not a strong indicator of diabetes, but when combined with other diabetes symptoms may be cause for concern.
Take this quick assessment to learn the symptoms of diabetes and help you determine if you or your child may have diabetes.