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Diabetes

Diabetes is a health problem where there is too much sugar (called glucose) in your blood. This happens when your body doesn’t make enough insulin, or the insulin doesn’t work properly. Insulin helps move sugar from your blood into your body to give you energy.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

  • Your body can’t make insulin.

  • You need to take insulin every day.

  • You’ll need to check your blood sugar often.

  • There is no cure, but you can manage it with help.

Signs of Type 1 Diabetes:

  • Feeling very thirsty

  • Going to the toilet a lot

  • Feeling tired

  • Losing weight quickly

  • Blurry vision

  • Cuts that take longer to heal

  • Sweet-smelling breath

For more information please visit: www.nhs.uk/type-1-diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes

  • Your body doesn’t use insulin properly.

  • It’s the most common type.

  • You may need to change your diet, take medicine, and have check-ups.

Signs of Type 2 Diabetes:

  • Feeling thirsty all the time

  • Going to the toilet more than usual

  • Feeling tired

  • Losing weight without trying

  • Itchy skin or getting thrush often

  • Blurry vision

  • Cuts that heal slowly

For more information please visit: www.nhs.uk/type-2-diabetes

Gestational Diabetes

  • Happens during pregnancy.

  • Usually goes away after the baby is born.

  • You may need extra care during pregnancy.

For more information please visit: www.nhs.uk/gestational-diabetes

Living With Diabetes

To stay healthy:

  • Check your blood sugar with a small test at home.

  • Eat healthy foods and avoid too much sugar.

  • Exercise regularly.

  • Take your medicine as your doctor tells you.

  • Look after your feet and eyes—diabetes can cause problems if not managed.

Who Can Get Diabetes?

You may be more likely to get diabetes if:

  • You are over 40

  • You are over 25 and from an African-Caribbean, Asian, or minority ethnic group

  • A close family member has diabetes

  • You are overweight

  • You had diabetes during pregnancy

Need Help or Support?

Diabetes UK Helpline

Hartlepool Diabetes Support Group

  • Meets at Hartlepool Central Library

  • 1st and 3rd Friday of each month

  • 10am to 12 noon

  • Contact: 07818 132 671

Hartlepool Support Hub