Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2)

What Is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes is a chronic condition where your body struggles to properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). This happens either because it doesn’t produce enough insulin (Type 1) or because the body becomes resistant to insulin’s effects (Type 2). Without proper care, diabetes can lead to serious complications — but with the right support, many people live long, healthy lives.

What Causes Diabetes?

Multiple factors can contribute to diabetes, including:

• Genetics and family history
• Sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise
• High-sugar or high-fat diet
• Obesity or excess abdominal weight
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS)
• Autoimmune response (Type 1 diabetes)

Types of Diabetes

• **Type 1 Diabetes** – Usually diagnosed in children or young adults. It’s an autoimmune condition that requires lifelong insulin therapy.
• **Type 2 Diabetes** – More common in adults but increasingly seen in younger people. It often develops gradually and may be managed through lifestyle, medication, or insulin.
• **Prediabetes** – Blood sugar is elevated but not yet in the diabetes range. Early action can often reverse it.
• **Gestational Diabetes** – Occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves afterward, but it raises the long-term risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

Some people experience early signs, while others may not notice anything until complications arise. Watch for:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Fatigue or low energy
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Increased hunger, even after eating

Diagnosis at German Clinic

If you’re experiencing symptoms — or simply want peace of mind — we offer thorough testing including:

• Fasting blood sugar and random glucose checks
• HbA1c (3-month average of blood sugar levels)
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
• Urinalysis and kidney function tests

How We Help You Manage Diabetes

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to diabetes — and that’s exactly why we personalize every care plan. Your support may include:

• Prescription management – insulin, metformin, or other medications
• Nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian
• Blood sugar monitoring and coaching
• Weight and lifestyle guidance to improve insulin sensitivity
• Ongoing checkups and lab monitoring
• Referrals to specialists for eye, kidney, or nerve care if needed

Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

While Type 1 diabetes is not preventable, Type 2 and prediabetes often are. Preventive steps include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active (at least 150 minutes/week)
• Eating a balanced, low-sugar, high-fiber diet
• Managing stress and sleep quality
• Routine screenings if you have family history or risk factors

Living Well with Diabetes

Diabetes is a lifelong condition, but with the right team and tools, it doesn’t have to limit your life. We’ll help you build a realistic, sustainable routine so you can focus on feeling your best — not just managing your numbers.