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If you suffer with diabetes, your body is unable to control sugars in the blood. You may have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. These two forms of the disease are similar, and differ in the speed at which they manifest in the body.

Type 1 diabetes symptoms develop relatively quickly. This form of diabetes is caused by an autoimmune response within the body. This response creates an attack on the valuable beta cells that are found in the pancreas. In the case of type 1 diabetes, there is no insulin being produced. Therefore, the symptoms develop rapidly and the disease worsens very quickly. Without early diagnosis and proper treatment a person suffering type 1 diabetes can quickly fall into a diabetic coma. This irreversible condition causes the patient to face a lifetime of insulin supplements.

In the case of type 2 diabetes, the situation is quite different. People with this form of the disease will still produce some insulin. However, the natural release of insulin may not be adequate for the body to process. Further, the cells may become resistant and unable to utilize the available insulin. Symptoms develop more slowly in type 2 diabetes. The disease grows progressively worse over an extended period of time and, in some cases, it can take years to diagnose.

The symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes are similar. Be aware of the signs, and seek medical advice right away if you feel that you may be showing symptoms of diabetes.

* Persistent Thirst: A consistent feeling of thirst may indicate the progression of diabetes. This can also be caused by other factors, but it's worth talking to your doctor to rule out the possibility of diabetes.

* Drowsiness and Lethargy: Everyone is leading a busy lifestyle, so drowsiness is not an uncommon complaint. However, if the condition continues for several days, it should be brought to your doctor's attention.

* Urinating Frequently: Excessive thirst obviously leads to more frequent urination. If you notice that the urine has a sweet smell, it may contain higher levels of sugar. Diabetes is just one condition that can cause frequent urination. Ask your doctor to be sure.

* Vision Changes: Smaller blood vessels may be damaged by high blood glucose levels. In turn, the sensitive structures of the eyes may also be damaged. Have any sudden changes in your vision promptly investigated.

* Sweet Breath: A sweet smell to the breath is a direct result of increased sugar levels in the blood. Call your doctor if someone tells you that your breath has a sweet smell.

* Increased Appetite: An increased appetite can be brought about by many factors, but this is may be worth noting as a potential sign of diabetes. Be particularly concerned if your appetite increases while you experience unexplained weight loss.

* Breathing Difficulties: Labored or heavy indicates many respiratory conditions, but it can also be a sign of diabetes that must not be ignored.

* Stupor or Unconsciousness: This is one of the last signs of diabetes to present itself. By the time that the patient shows these symptoms, it may be too late to help.

Diabetes can affect anyone, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Early detection is the key to successfully treating both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Ignoring the signs and delaying treatment, on the other hand, may lead to additional health risks and more serious complications. See your doctor immediately if you have one symptom or a combination of the signs of diabetes.