What is diabetes? Diabetes is a chronic disease in which your body is unable to produce insulin or properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that controls the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetes leads to high blood glucose levels, which can damage...
How can diabetes affect my eyes and eyesight? If you have high blood glucose (sugar), you may be at risk of developing eye or vision problems. What can I do to prevent eye problems? To avoid eye problems associated with diabetes, you should: manage your diabetes; monitor your...
Dental health is important, especially if you have diabetes. Poorly managed blood glucose (sugar) levels can lead to severe toothaches or other dental problems. What are the signs of dental problems with diabetes? Some signs of dental problems include: Tooth decay (cavities) –...
Nerve damage is a long-term complication of diabetes. If you have high blood glucose (sugar) levels over an extended period of time it can cause diabetic neuropathy (damage your nerves). What is neuropathy? There are two types of neuropathy: Peripheral – affects the feeling in...
Heart and blood vessel problems can occur if you have high blood glucose (sugar) levels. What do my heart and blood vessels do? Your heart and blood vessels make up your circulatory system. Your heart is a muscle that pumps blood through your body. Your heart pumps blood carrying...
What are the kidneys? The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that are connected to the bladder. They are located below the ribs near the back. What do the kidneys do? The kidneys have many different jobs, but one of the most important is to filter the blood, removing waste...
What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. Women who develop this complication do not have diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. It can affect about 3-12 per cent of pregnant women. When should pregnant...
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot properly use the insulin that is released. Am I at risk for developing type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes can occur without you knowing it, so it is...
Many people with diabetes live long and healthy lives. While there is no cure for diabetes, it can be managed by: having a healthy diet; exercising regularly; and monitoring and recording your blood glucose (sugar) levels ( Insulin log and Non-Insulin log). Why do I need to test...
Prince Edward Island’s network of hospitals and health facilities work together to ensure you receive the best possible care, when and where you need it. Why would I be transferred to another hospital? Planning for your care begins when you are admitted to hospital. Your health...