Diabetes types

There are three main types of diabetes: diabetes type 1, diabetes type 2 and gestational diabetes. Find out about diabetes types.

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Diabetes prevention

Nothing can be done to prevent type 1 diabetes. However, type 2 diabetes results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Find out how diabetes can be prevented.

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Diabetes treatment

The aim of treating your diabetes is to keep blood glucose levels as close to 'normal' as possible. Find out about treatment options for diabetes.

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Diabetes

Diabetes is a long-term condition where blood glucose levels become too high as the body either produces little or no insulin, or can't use insulin properly.

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Living with diabetes

Having diabetes can make some aspects of life more challenging, but it doesn’t define who you are or prevent you from enjoying and participating in life. Find out how to manage with diabetes.

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Diabetes symptoms

Symptoms for type 1 diabetes may occur suddenly while symptoms of type 2 diabetes have a gradual onset. Find out about diabetes symptoms.

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Pre-diabetes

Having pre-diabetes does not mean you will necessarily develop type 2 diabetes, but you will have a higher risk than if you had normal glucose levels.

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Diabetes diagnosis

Diabetes is diagnosed by a blood test. It is important to be diagnosed early so treatment can be started as soon as possible. Find out how diabetes is diagnosed.

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Diabetes screening tests

A diabetes screening test may be a good idea if you are at high risk since diabetes can occur without symptoms. Find out about the risks and how diabetes screening tests are carried out.

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Complications of diabetes

Over time persistent high blood glucose levels (BGLs) can damage the body’s organs causing 'diabetes-related complications'. Find out about complications of diabetes.

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Just diagnosed with diabetes

Diabetes doesn’t have to stop you from leading the life you want, Find out more about how to manage diabetes, and how to stay healthy and active.

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Diabetes testing and monitoring

Trusted information about diabetes testing and monitoring, blood sugar testing equipment and ketone testing equipment can be found on this page.

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Diabetes testing and monitoring problems

Trusted information about diabetes testing and monitoring problems, including glucose meters, continuous glucose monitoring, and other equipment problems.

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Why a diabetes test might be overdue for you

Diabetes is being diagnosed too late in many Australians, and by delaying a visit to the doctor they put themselves at risk of life-threatening health problems.

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Blood glucose test

Blood glucose tests, also sometimes called blood sugar tests, are usually used to check for or monitor diabetes.

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Diabetes medication

There are many types of medicines used to treat diabetes. The specific medicine will depend on the type of diabetes, as well as the state of your general health. Find out more about insulin, metformin, sulphonylureas and other medications.

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Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it well. Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed.

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Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy, which affects people with diabetes, causes pain or numbness in the hands, feet or limbs because the nerves are damaged. Learn more here.

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How to talk to someone about diabetes

Almost 300 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes every day. But type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed, if you know the risk factors.

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Diabetic ketoacidosis

Information about diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition caused when you have a high blood sugar level, and not enough insulin in your body to break it down to use for energy .

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Insulin and diabetes

Trusted information about insulin and diabetes, storing insulin, taking insulin, and what to do if you run out of insulin or your insulin is out of date can be found on this page.

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Stay safe while flying with diabetes

If you live with diabetes and travel by plane, forward preparation is crucial. Use these tips on meals, insulin and emergency planning so you arrive safely.

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Find out your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and kidney disease with this quick test

Healthdirect, with the George Institute, has developed a free online risk calculator to help prevent heart disease, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.

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HbA1c test

An HbA1c is a type of blood test which is used to help diagnose and monitor people with diabetes.

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Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of disorders that increases the risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes. Find out more about its symptoms and treatments.

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Risk Checker

Find out if you're at risk of heart disease, kidney disease or type 2 diabetes in just a few minutes using the healthdirect Risk Checker.

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Metformin

Metformin is a medicine that is commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. To get metformin, you need to have a prescription written for you by your doctor. Find out more about metformin on this page.

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Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can cause pain, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs because of damage to the nerves. Learn about some of the possible causes here.

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Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)

Hyperglycaemia is having too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. Find out more about the effects of hyperglycaemia and steps to take when your blood sugar level is higher than it should be.

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Obesity symptoms

Being a little overweight may not cause many noticeable problems. However, once you are carrying extra kilograms (or pounds), you may develop symptoms that affect your daily life. Find out about the symptoms of obesity.

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