American Diabetes Association (ADA) Diabetes Guidelines

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetes is a condition in which the body does not make insulin or does not use insulin properly. It is estimated that 5 to 10 percent of Americans with diabetes have type 1 (juvenile/insulin dependent). The majority have type 2 (non-insulin dependent). It is important to understand diabetes in order to properly treat it and promote good health.

Symptoms

ADA guidelines list the symptoms of both type 1 and 2 diabetes as frequent urination, unusual hunger, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, irritability and blurred vision.

Diagnosis

ADA guidelines recommend the Fasting Plasma Glucose test (FPG) to diagnose diabetes. A level of 126 mg/dl or greater is significant for diabetes.

Treatment

Type 1 diabetes is not curable but it is treatable with insulin replacement. Type 2 is treated with oral medications or insulin replacement. Both types require a balanced diet, exercise and strict glucose monitoring and control.

Prevention

According to the ADA, type 2 diabetes may be preventable: "Small changes in diet and exercise can prevent type 2 diabetes from developing or slow it in its tracks."

Considerations

The ADA says that poorly controlled diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, hypertension, eye damage, nerve damage and poor healing injuries.

Warning

If you suspect that you may have diabetes, and if you have one or more of the previously mentioned symptoms, the ADA recommends that you see your health care provider immediately.

References

• American Diabetes Association

Resources

• http://www.diabetes.org/home.jsp