How to Learn About Diabetes

1). Define hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Hyperglycemia is typically defined as 180 milligrams of blood glucose per deciliter of blood (mg/dl) when measured two hours after a meal. Diabetics usually must measure their blood sugar level at least once per day.
2). Learn the effects of hyperglycemia. The first symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent hunger, thirst and urination. These symptoms don't typically occur until a blood glucose level reaches at least 270 mg/dl. However, organ damage can occur in levels as low as 125 mg/dl if this is a chronic condition.
3). Identify Type 1 diabetes. This form of diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that results in the destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 1 diabetes is almost always fatal without insulin supplements. This form of diabetes accounts for 5 to 10 percent of diabetes cases.
4). Study Type 2 diabetes. This form of diabetes is primarily characterized by an inability of the cells in the body to use insulin properly and it may also be combined with a slight insulin deficiency. Type 2 diabetes accounts for up to 90 percent of diabetes cases.
5). Examine gestational diabetes. This form of diabetes occurs in pregnant women with hyperglycemia who have never had diabetes prior to their pregnancy. Gestational diabetes occurs in about 4 percent of pregnant women.