Did you know? Diabetes affects 34.2 million people in the United States—more than 10% of the population. More alarming, about 7.3 million people have diabetes that hasn’t been diagnosed. These people are unaware that they have a chronic condition that can grow more dangerous over time.

Most people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t metabolize sugar properly. As the years pass, high blood sugar can cause organ damage.

Though diabetes sounds scary, you can manage it with lifestyle changes and medications. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN can diagnose diabetes and refer you to providers who can help you control your diabetes.

What’s the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. Your body’s immune system attacks the cells that produce insulin, a chemical that controls blood-sugar levels. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin to keep their blood sugar at safe levels.

Type 2 diabetes develops slowly. People may produce their own insulin, but not enough to control blood sugar. Or your body becomes resistant to insulin and doesn’t use blood glucose effectively. High blood sugar levels gradually cause damage throughout the body.

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

• Being overweight
• Having a sedentary lifestyle
• Having a family history of diabetes
• Having a personal history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Age and race—older people, as well as Asian, Black, Latino and Native American people, are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes

What Are the Signs of Type 2 Diabetes?

Many people confuse the signs of Type 2 diabetes with being tired or growing older.

But it’s important to take small changes in your health seriously. They could be a sign of diabetes or prediabetes.

Diabetes Symptoms

• Feeling exhausted
• Blurry vision
• Being extra thirsty or hungry
• Having to urinate often
• Wounds and infections that are slow to heal

Concerned about diabetes? Make an AFC TeleCare appointment with our AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN team to learn your next steps.