Diabetes FAQs

You are at risk for type 2 diabetes if you: 

• Have prediabetes 
• Have an unhealthy weight (have overweight or obesity; BMI of 25 or higher) 
• Are 45 years or older 
• Have a family history of type 2 diabetes 
• Are physically active less than 3 times a week 
• Have a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby more than 9 pounds 

You should be screened for diabetes if you: 

• Are between 35 to 70 years and have an unhealthy weight. 
• Are a woman planning a pregnancy and have an unhealthy weight or an additional risk factor for diabetes. 
• Have been diagnosed with prediabetes. 

For women with a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes and everyone 35 years or older, test every three years if your tests are normal. Some medications may increase your risk of developing diabetes. Talk with your healthcare provider about diabetes screening if you’re unsure if certain medications you take increase your risk. 

Symptoms of diabetes may include: 

• Frequent urination 
• Excessive thirst 
• Increase in hunger 
• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Drowsiness 
• Blurred vision 
• Slow-healing wounds 
• Weight loss (type 1) 
• Different sensations in hands and feet (type 2) 

You may also have diabetes and only experience mild symptoms. 

Your healthcare provider can diagnose diabetes in a few different ways. 

• An A1C test is a simple blood test. 
• A fasting plasma glucose test measures your blood sugar after not eating or drinking for at least eight hours. 
• The oral glucose tolerance test measures how your body processes sugar. The test is done before and two hours after you consume a sweet drink. 
• In cases of severe diabetes symptoms, diabetes is measured with a random (also called casual) plasma glucose test. 

If you have diabetes, have your A1C test twice a year or more often as recommended by your healthcare provider. Monitoring your A1C helps to measure if your body is responding to treatment. 

• Diabetic ketoacidosis 
• Foot problems 
• Gum disease 
• Heart disease 
• High blood pressure 
• Kidney disease 
• Lower limb amputation 
• Nerve damage 
• Premature death 
• Skin infections and disorders 
• Stroke 
• Vision changes 

The American Diabetes Association provides helpful tips for those who have been newly diagnosed with diabetes. 

If you don’t have insurance and need diabetes care, you can find additional itle resources at your local community health center. Locate the nearest community health center through the Health Resources & Services Administration or the Idaho Community Health Center Association website.