Diabetes is a disease in which there are high levels of sugar in the blood. At least 25.8 million people in the United States are living with diabetes. There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. In this article, we will focus on Type 2 diabetes which is the most common type of diabetes.

What are the causes of Type 2 diabetes?

In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot use the insulin adequately.

What are some risk factors for Type 2 diabetes?

• Age - People over age 45.

• Family history - Your risk increases if you have a parent or sibling with diabetes.

• Weight - The more fatty tissue you have, the more resistant your cells become to insulin.

• Inactivity - The less active you are, the greater your risk.

• Race - More common in African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, and Asians.

• Elevated triglycerides and low HDL (good cholesterol) - Your risk is higher.

What are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and people have no symptoms. However, some people do experience symptoms. The most common symptoms are:

• Unusual thirst.

• Extreme hunger.

• Extreme fatigue and irritability.

• Other symptoms: blurred vision, cuts/bruises that are slow to heal, tingling/numbness in the hands/feet, recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections.

What complications can diabetes cause?

Blood sugars that are too high over time can lead to many other problems such as:

• Kidney damage.

• Blindness.

• Foot ulcers or amputations.

• Heart attack.

• Stroke.

What can I do to treat my diabetes?

There is no cure for diabetes however there are many treatments available. Your doctor may prescribe you oral medications or insulin and recommend diet and exercise to help control your blood sugars and prevent symptoms. It is important to take your medications as prescribed, exercise at least 3 times per week, and maintain a healthy diet.

What can I do to help my diabetes?

• Take your medications as prescribed.

• Check and record your blood sugars daily.

• Check your feet daily for sores, ulcers, calluses.

• Exercise.

• Maintain a healthy diet.

• Avoid smoking, alcohol and drug use.

• Attend your doctor appointments.

• Visit the eye doctor every year.

• Get yearly foot exams.

• Visit the dentist twice a year.

What are some of the services Walgreens offers to help you manage and better understand diabetes?

Diabetes Conversation Map

A series of face-to-face, dialogue driven small group sessions, designed to encourage patients to share their own experiences and make plans to improve their diabetes.

Health Testing Services

Walgreens is pleased to offer blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C testing. Blood Glucose Testing is used to help diagnose diabetes and monitor your blood glucose levels. Hemoglobin A1C Testing measures your average blood glucose (“sugar") control for the past 2 to 3 month. These services are available in select stores. Please call to find one near you.

For additional information on Diabetes or Walgreens services, please contact your Walgreens pharmacist or visit us at www.walgreens.com.