Diabetes

This is the shortened name for Diabetes Mellitus. This is a condition when the level of sugar (glucose) becomes higher than normal, and the level of a hormone (body chemical) called Insulin is reduced or absent. The pancreas produces insulin.

	Symptoms of diabetes
	Weight loss Going to wee a lot Drinking a lot - very thirsty Tired Infections Sometimes the patient may be unaware there is a problem for several months. Sometimes this problem is diagnosed at a routine medical. This slow onset diabetes is called Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM). This is the most common type of diabetes and occurs usually in people over 55.
	Who is at risk?
	You have an increased risk of diabetes if a blood relative has diabetes you take steroids regularly you have raised blood pressure you are overweight
	Recommended web sites
	This is a very brief overview of the complicated condition that is diabetes. Here are some websites you may find useful for a more detailed explanation: Diabetes UK The charity for people with diabetes Diabetes Information from the BBC health website Diabetes.co.uk The diabetes portal Diabetes - Type 1 A leaflet from Patient UK Diabetes - Type 2 A leaflet from Patient UK