Diabetes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Types

Introduction

Diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose), its main energy source. Proper management is crucial, as uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications like nerve damage, heart disease and kidney problems.

Understanding what diabetes is, its causes, symptoms and types can help individuals recognise early signs and take steps to manage their health effectively.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels stay high because the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. Insulin plays a key role in moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. When this process is disrupted, excess glucose accumulates in the blood, potentially leading to a range of health complications.

Types of diabetes and their causes

There are several types of diabetes, with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes being the most common. Causes of diabetes vary between types, but all involve issues with how the body produces or uses insulin.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce insulin, requiring individuals to manage their blood sugar through daily insulin injections or an insulin pump. 

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, research suggests that genetic factors and environmental triggers, such as viral infections, may contribute to its development. Unlike type 2 diabetes, this condition is not influenced by lifestyle choices.

This type is usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, but it can develop in adults as well. There is no cure, but careful blood sugar monitoring, insulin therapy and a healthy lifestyle can help manage it.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough to regulate blood sugar properly. The body still produces insulin, but cells do not respond to the hormone normally.

This type is more common in adults but is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people due to rising obesity rates and sedentary lifestyles. Risk factors include:

• Being overweight or obese.
• Having a family history of diabetes.
• Leading a physically inactive lifestyle.
• An unhealthy diet with high amounts of processed foods and added sugars.

Treatment for type 2 diabetes often includes dietary changes, regular exercise, weight management and medication if needed.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy when hormones affect insulin function. While it often resolves after childbirth, it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Expecting mothers are routinely screened for this condition as part of prenatal care.

Other forms of diabetes

Some rare types of diabetes result from genetic mutations, pancreatic diseases or hormonal disorders. These cases require specialised treatment based on the underlying cause.

Diabetes symptoms to observe

Diabetes symptoms can develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the type. Some people may not notice symptoms at first, which is why regular blood sugar checks are important.

Common diabetes symptoms include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds or recurring infections
• Tingling or loss of sensation in the hands and feet

Type 1 diabetes symptoms tend to appear suddenly, whereas type 2 diabetes symptoms often develop gradually over time. If any signs of diabetes arise, seek medical evaluation for early diagnosis and management.

Managing and treating diabetes

Diabetes management depends on the type but generally involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels through lifestyle adjustments, medication and regular monitoring.

• Diet – Eat a well-balanced diet with whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and fibre, while limiting refined sugars.
• Physical activity – Exercise more to help the body use insulin more effectively and support weight management.
• Medication – People with type 1 diabetes need insulin, while those with type 2 diabetes may need oral medications, insulin or both.
• Regular monitoring – Checking blood sugar levels helps track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Proper diabetes management reduces the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve problems and vision issues.

When to see a doctor

Early diagnosis of diabetes can prevent complications. It’s important to see a doctor if:

• Diabetes symptoms persist or worsen
• Blood sugar levels stay elevated despite lifestyle changes
• There’s a family history of diabetes, increasing personal risk
• A doctor has recommended screening due to weight, age or other factors

Get a medical certificate for diabetes management

Manage your diabetes care without the hassle of a clinic visit. At Medical Certificates Australia, we offer quick online medical certificates following a virtual consultation with a qualified doctor. When you need to call in sick due to fluctuating blood sugar levels, medical appointments or treatment adjustments, we’ve got you covered.