Diabetes is a chronic disease characterised by high levels glucose (sugar) in your blood, which leads, over time, to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves.

There are two types of diabetes – Type 1 and Type 2.

Type 1

Type 1 Diabetes affects about 10% of people with diabetes and is caused by the body not producing insulin to regularise the level of sugar in the blood. It usually starts in childhood and will require daily injections of insulin to control the condition. The cause of this disease is unknown.

Symptoms Excessive urine of urine (polyuria)

Thirst (polydipsia)

Constant hunger

Weight loss

Fatigue

These symptoms may occur suddenly – medical attention should be sought.

Type 2

Type 2 Diabetes affects the majority of people with diabetes. It is a result of the body’s ineffective use of insulin. Type 2 Diabetes is often due to excess body weight and physical inactivity. Until recently, this type of diabetes was seen only in adults but it is now occurring more frequently in children.

Symptoms may be similar to those of type 1 diabetes, but are often less marked. As a result, the disease may be diagnosed several years after onset, after complications have already arisen.

Our pharmacist is available to offer advice on all aspects of diabetes and to explain the benefits of well controlled diabetes.

If you would like to have your blood sugar levels checked, drop into us at The Village Pharmacy.

€5 per test.

If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels you should seek immediate medical advice.