Diabetes - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diagnosis of diabetes involves measuring glucose levels in the blood:

• Fasting blood sugar test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast
• HbA1c test: Provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months
• Oral glucose tolerance test: Measures blood sugar before and after ingesting a sweet drink

How is diabetes treated?

Treatment varies depending on the type of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes is primarily treated with insulin injections, necessary for controlling blood glucose levels.
• Type 2 diabetes may be managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.
• Gestational diabetes is managed through diet and exercise, and insulin injections if necessary.

Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and medication adherence are crucial for managing diabetes and preventing complications. It is vital to work closely with a healthcare team to tailor the management approach to individual needs.