How to recognize the symptoms of a stroke

According to The Canadian Diabetes Association, there are over two million people with diabetes in Canada . It is estimated that one third of these are not diagnosed. Seniors represent almost half of those with this disease. This number can only rise as our population ages.

What is diabetes?
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to convert sugars into energy for use by our bodies. When the body can no longer produce insulin or has problems using the insulin it produces, type 2 diabetes can develop. This causes a build up of sugar in the blood and, over time, can damage the blood vessels and nerves.

If not properly treated, the following serious complications can arise:

Blindness
Stroke
Kidney Failure
Heart Disease
Loss of blood circulation to extremities that may lead to amputation
Erectile Dysfunction
Nerve Damage

Who is at risk for Diabetes?
If you are over age 40, you are at risk for type 2 diabetes. It is a very good idea to get tested at least every three years. You should get tested sooner and more often if:

You are of Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent
You are overweight, especially if weight is carried mostly around your middle

Your risk is even higher if you:

Have a parent or sibling who has diabetes
Gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
Had gestational diabetes
Have health issues associated with diabetes
Have high blood pressure
Have high cholesterol

What are the symptoms?
While many people who have type 2 diabetes do not have any symptoms, you should see your doctor if you experience any of the following:

Frequent urination
Unusual thirst
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Extreme fatigue, loss of energy
Blurred vision
Frequent or recurring infections
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Cuts or bruises that are slow to heal

Can diabetes be prevented?
Scientists believe that lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Weight control, a healthy meal plan and physical activity are important prevention steps.

This article is for information purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.