### Advanced Stage Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment **Symptoms:** - **Increased Thirst and Urination:** High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb the excess sugar, leading to increased urination and thirst. - **Fatigue:** When cells are deprived of sugar, you may feel tired and weak. - **Blurred Vision:** High blood sugar levels can pull fluid from your tissues, including the lenses of your eyes, affecting your ability to focus. - **Slow-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections:** Diabetes affects your body's ability to heal and fight infections. - **Nerve Pain:** High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to pain or numbness in the limbs. **Diagnosis:** - **A1C Test:** Measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes. - **Fasting Blood Sugar Test:** A blood sample is taken after an overnight fast. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes. - **Oral Glucose Tolerance Test:** Measures your blood sugar before and after you drink a sugary liquid. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher after two hours indicates diabetes. **Treatment:** - **Medications:** Insulin therapy and other medications to manage blood sugar levels. - **Diet:** A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Monitoring carbohydrate intake is crucial. - **Exercise:** Regular physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels and improve overall health. - **Monitoring:** Regularly checking blood sugar levels to manage and adjust treatment plans. - **Education and Support:** Working with healthcare providers to learn about diabetes management and joining support groups. **Lifestyle Changes:** - **Quit Smoking:** Smoking increases the risk of diabetes complications. - **Limit Alcohol:** Alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to either rise or fall. - **Manage Stress:** Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so finding ways to relax is important. **Complications:** - **Cardiovascular Disease:** Increased risk of heart disease and stroke. - **Kidney Damage:** Diabetes can lead to kidney failure or irreversible end-stage kidney disease. - **Eye Damage:** Increased risk of blindness and other eye problems. - **Foot Damage:** Nerve damage in the feet can lead to serious infections. - **Skin Conditions:** Diabetes can leave you more susceptible to skin problems. - **Hearing Impairment:** Diabetes can lead to hearing problems. Managing advanced stage diabetes requires a comprehensive approach involving medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring to prevent complications and maintain quality of life.