Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Without enough insulin, the body is unable to properly use and store glucose (a type of sugar), which is the body’s main source of fuel. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes have high levels of glucose in the blood, a condition known as hyperglycaemia.
Type 1 diabetes typically develops in childhood or adolescence, but it can also develop in adults. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). It is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases.
In type 2 diabetes, the body is still able to produce insulin, but it either doesn’t produce enough or the cells in the body don’t respond properly to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. As a result, the body is unable to properly use and store glucose, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycaemia).
Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adulthood, but it is becoming increasingly common in children and adolescents. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, family history of diabetes, and a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy).
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:
- Increased thirst and urination: The body tries to get rid of excess glucose through urine, which can lead to dehydration.
- Fatigue: The body is not able to use glucose for energy, which can lead to fatigue.
- Blurred vision: High levels of glucose in the blood can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eye, leading to blurred vision.
- Slow healing of cuts and wounds: High levels of glucose in the blood can affect the body’s ability to heal.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet: This can be a symptom of diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the nerves.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be similar to those of type 1 diabetes, but they may develop more gradually and be less severe. They include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of cuts and wounds
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Management
Type 1 diabetes is a serious condition that requires lifelong treatment with insulin. Insulin replacement therapy can be done by injections or pumps. People with type 1 diabetes also need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, and make adjustments to their insulin dose as needed. They also need to eat a healthy diet, get regular physical activity and regular check-ups to avoid any complications.
While there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, it can be managed with insulin therapy, lifestyle changes, and regular medical care. With proper management, people with type 1 diabetes can lead healthy, normal lives.
Type 2 diabetes is typically managed with a combination of lifestyle changes (such as healthy eating and regular physical activity) and medication. Medications for type 2 diabetes include oral medications such as metformin and sulfonylureas, and injectable medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors.
If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and blindness. With proper management, however, people with type 2 diabetes can reduce their risk of complications and lead healthy, normal lives.