What Are The 4 Stages Of Diabetes: A Comprehensive Overview

What is the most serious stage of diabetes?

The most critical stage of diabetes is Stage 5, known as Severe Decompensation. At this stage, individuals experience a significant loss of β-cells, which are crucial for regulating blood sugar. This loss is so severe that individuals become ketotic, which means their body produces excess ketones, and they become entirely reliant on insulin to stay alive. Glucose levels in this stage typically exceed 22 mmol/l (350 mg/dl), but they can fluctuate based on dietary intake and hydration levels. It’s important to note that this stage represents an advanced and life-threatening phase of diabetes, requiring vigilant medical management to maintain blood sugar within safe limits. [Date: December 1, 2004, refers to the source of this information.]

Stage 4 type 2 diabetes is a critical phase characterized by the emergence of severe vascular complications, specifically diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. In addition to these complications, individuals with stage 4 type 2 diabetes may also experience various microvascular events directly related to their diabetes. This stage represents an advanced progression of the disease, and it demands significant medical attention and management. The information about stage 4 type 2 diabetes was last updated on November 28, 2018, highlighting the importance of ongoing research and medical advancements in understanding and treating this condition.