If you are like me, diabetes runs in your family. Knowing what symptoms to look for makes it much easier to know if you or someone you love may have diabetes.

There are two types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is when your pancreas does not secrete enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is when your body does not sufficiently absorb the insulin your pancreas produces.

There are many symptoms for diabetes. The most recognizable for all types of diabetes is excessive thirst, hunger, and urination. Symptoms for Type I diabetes can develop quite rapidly, in as little as weeks or months. Symptoms for Type 2 diabetes are generally milder and can take much longer to surface.

Type I diabetes often causes rapid weight loss, even though there may be an increase of food intake. It also causes prolonged fatigue, nausea, blurry vision, dry mouth, bad breath, and slowed healing.

There are a few circumstances, you should seek medical attention immediately.

• If you feel nauseated, weak, and excessively thirsty; are urinating very frequently; have abdominal pain; or are breathing more than normal, with sweet breath that smells like nail polish remover. You may need immediate medical attention for ketoacidosis, a potentially deadly complication of Type I diabetes.
• If you are having weakness or fainting spells; are experiencing a rapid heartbeat, trembling, and excessive sweating; and feel irritable, hungry, or suddenly drowsy. You could be developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). You may need a carbohydrate snack promptly to prevent more serious complications.

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of Type I diabetes, especially if it runs in your family, you may save a life. To learn more about diabetes, visit