Northeast Ohio Health Resources

Diabetes affects how the body manages insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. There are four types of diabetes, prediabetes, type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. Diabetes can be managed with a healthy diet, physical activity, insulin therapy and medication. The information below is about diabetes, prevention and management. 

Prediabetes is diagnosed before type 2 diabetes. With prediabetes, blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough yet to diagnose type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes can be managed to prevent type 2 diabetes from developing. 

Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood, but not always. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas struggles to create insulin. Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition. Type 1 diabetes can be managed with insulin, medications and lifestyle habits. 

People with type 2 diabetes have too much glucose in their blood. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by genetics or lifestyle habits. Type 2 diabetes can be managed by monitoring your glucose levels, managing diet, losing weight and support from medical professionals. 

Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar that is harmful to the baby and the mother. Pregnant mothers are tested for gestational diabetes and need support from medical professionals to keep both mother and baby healthy.