Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases that hamper the way your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for the body cells and it is the main fuel source for the brain. Diabetes mellitus may be of type 1 or type 2. These two are irreversible conditions. Potentially reversible conditions are referred to as prediabetes, where blood sugar levels are high, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a common occurrence during pregnancy, and usually gets resolved after delivery.

Diabetes diagnosis and treatment are based on the symptoms. The symptoms of diabetes depend on the blood sugar levels in the body. Those with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes may not experience any symptoms. In the case of type 1 diabetes, the symptoms come on very quickly and are more severe.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst
• Extreme hunger
• Frequent urination
• Sudden, unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Slow healing of wounds
• Frequent infections

1. Diagnosis of diabetes
Diabetes diagnosis and treatment is done after proper evaluation of all the symptoms. The following tests are conducted for the diagnosis of diabetes.

• Fasting glucose test
  The blood sugar levels are tested first thing in the morning before consuming anything. A level of 126 mg/dL and higher indicates diabetes.
• Oral glucose tolerance test
  A beverage containing glucose is given to the patient. The blood sugar levels are tested every 30 to 60 minutes for up to three hours. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher is considered to be a diabetic reading.
• A1C test
  This test reveals the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. If the A1C levels are 6.5% or higher, then it may indicate diabetes.

Diabetes diagnosis and treatment is often correlated to other signs and symptoms, family and medical history of the person.

2. Treatment of diabetes
Diabetes (type 1 and 2) is potentially irreversible. Diabetes diagnosis and treatment requires constant monitoring of blood sugar levels. Insulin dosage is prescribed for managing it medically. Apart from medical management, one needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle for the control and management of diabetes. There are several natural treatment methods for diabetes. Some of which are listed below:

• Bitter gourd
  Extract of bitter gourd diluted with water consumed first thing in the morning is a natural remedy for diabetes.
• Cinnamon
  A cup of water with a pinch of cinnamon is a good way to fight diabetes.
• Indian gooseberry
  Diluted gooseberry extract taken on an empty stomach daily for a few months is known to show favorable results in treating diabetes.
• Fenugreek
  Fenugreek improves glucose tolerance and lowers blood sugar levels. Soaking two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight and consuming them along with the water is beneficial for treating diabetes.
• Black plum
  This is very effective in controlling blood sugar levels. The fruits and seeds of the plant are known to have a hypoglycemic effect for reducing blood sugar levels.

A healthy lifestyle combined with home remedies can help fight diabetes naturally.