Diabetes is a chronic disease that develops when the body does not produce enough insulin to meet its needs or when cells do not respond normally to the insulin produced. Insulin, a hormone essential to life, supplies cells with their fuel, glucose (or sugar). If the body does not have enough insulin, the concentration of glucose in the blood – its glycemia level – will become elevated.
In the short-to-long term, too much glucose in the blood will cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves and circulatory system (the heart and blood vessels). This eventually leads to medical complications typically associated with diabetes.
The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.