Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is marked by an autoimmune condition preventing normal insulin production. It is a condition where the pancreas ceases to produce insulin, leading to elevated glucose levels and an increased risk of health complications.
This form of diabetes can manifest at any age, although it commonly begins in childhood or early adulthood.
While hereditary factors may play a role in the development of type 1 diabetes, most individuals with this condition do not have a prior family history. Symptoms may appear gradually over a few days to weeks, and it is crucial for patients to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms arise.
Failure to report symptoms promptly can result in complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening imbalance in blood chemicals (electrolytes).
Type 2 Diabetes
In contrast to type 1 diabetes, which stems from the body’s inability to produce insulin, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot generate enough insulin or efficiently use the insulin it produces.
While type 1 may be considered the more severe form, type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent. Various factors can influence one’s susceptibility to type 2 diabetes, including genetics, excess body weight, and metabolic syndrome.
Additionally, certain uncontrollable factors may contribute to the onset of type 2 diabetes, such as being 45 years or older, having a family history of the disease, or belonging to specific minority groups prone to the condition. There’s a clear link between being overweight or obese and Type 2 diabetes. Some pregnant women develop gestational diabetes, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Regular checkups with your physician can assist in assessing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, enabling you to take proactive measures to mitigate or reduce its impact.”
