Are you constantly thirsty? Has your appetite increased? Do you need to urinate more often? Are you often really exhausted?

If you have some of these symptoms, read this information sheet carefully. This will give you the simple facts about diabetes AND how you can manage it.

If you suspect that you, or any one of your loved ones, may have diabetes, come into Peermed. We will give you a test straight away and will also provide all the support and follow-up treatment you may require.

Diabetes develops when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin OR when the body becomes unable to use the insulin it produces effectively.

Yes, there are type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 normally occurs in childhood and is an auto-immune condition.
Type 2 is much more common and is generally associated with poor lifestyle choices.

There are several factors that put you at risk:

• Obesity
• Increasing age
• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• A family history of diabetes

Type 1 diabetes does require regular insulin injections, but type 2 is generally treated in a combination of ways: the doctor will suggest lifestyle changes in the form of healthier eating and regular exercise. If this proves insufficient, then there are a variety of medicines your doctor can prescribe for you.

Unfortunately it is not. But, there is absolutely no reason that with lifestyle changes and the correct medication where necessary, you can live a long and productive life.

If you do not get treatment for diabetes what can happen to you?

High sugar levels can cause long term damage to organs including the heart and kidneys. It can also lead to damage to nerves which can result in limb amputation and blindness.

Women who have diabetes can have safe pregnancies. What is important is to have blood glucose levels tested regularly to ensure that the unborn baby is healthy.

There is a type of diabetes known as gestational diabetes which some women develop; it generally disappears completely once the baby is born.

There are lots of silly things being said about diabetes. If you have nay concerns check with us – we’ll put your mind at ease:

Some people believe that diabetics can use brown sugar and that white sugar is bad for you. Brown sugar is STILL sugar – just a different colour.

Diabetes in NOT caused by a parasite.

Eating sugar does not cause diabetes. Eating lots of sugar can make you overweight which can increase your chances of developing diabetes.

It is estimated that there are 12.1 million adults living with diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa – and that only 15% have been diagnosed.