Diabetes 101

Guadalupe Castillo, RN, CDCES  
Diabetes Educator for Casa Colina and Centers for Healthcare’s  
Limb Preservation Program 

Diabetes is a medical condition where your body has too much sugar (blood glucose). This happens because your body doesn't make enough insulin or can't use the insulin it makes well. Insulin helps remove sugar from your bloodstream and turn it into energy. If blood sugar stays too high, it can cause health problems. 

Types of Diabetes: 

• Type 1 Diabetes: Usually found in children and young adults, this is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-making cells. People with Type 1 must take daily insulin shots. 

• Type 2 Diabetes: Most common type seen in adults and children. Linked to being overweight, inactivity, and family history. Your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use it well. 

• Gestational Diabetes: High blood sugar during pregnancy. Usually goes away after birth but increases the likelihood of both mom and baby getting Type 2 diabetes later. 

Signs You Might Have Diabetes: Can be mild, but look out for: 

• Feeling very thirsty 

• Urinating a lot 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• Feeling very hungry 

• Constant tiredness 

• Blurry vision 

• Slow-healing sores/cuts  

Getting diagnosed early is crucial to prevent bigger problems. 

Diabetes Management: Managing diabetes means keeping blood sugar levels healthy. This involves: 

• Checking blood sugar often (home monitor and HbA1c lab tests). 

• Eating healthy: Focus on whole foods, lots of vegetables, and cut down on high fat and high sugar foods. Drink water instead of sugary drinks. 

• Being active: Regular exercise helps, even walking. 

• Insulin: People with Type 1, and many with Type 2, need insulin injections. 

• Pills: Some with Type 2 take pills to help their body make or use insulin better. 

What Happens if Diabetes Isn't Controlled? If blood sugar stays too high, it can damage parts of your body over time, like: 

• Your heart (leading to heart attacks or strokes) 

• Your kidneys (kidney failure, leading to dialysis) 

• Your nerves (causing pain, numbness, or even limb loss) 

• Your eyes (leading to blindness)  

See your doctors regularly to check for these problems. 

Living with Diabetes means paying attention to your health daily. With good care and support, people with diabetes can live long, healthy, and happy lives. Knowing about diabetes, early diagnosis, and sticking to your treatment plan are the best ways to stay healthy. 

Casa Colina is offering Diabetes Education classes in English and in Spanish. Visit https://www.casacolina.org/programs-services/community-services/wellness-programs/