Even though both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are associated with elevations in blood glucose, there are some distinct differences between the two disorders. These differences include the following: Show
OverviewOnly 8 percent have Type 1 diabetes and all the rest have Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is 10 times less common than Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body’s immune system damaging the pancreas and, therefore, no insulin can be manufactured by the body. In Type 1 diabetes, the body fails to make insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either develops a resistance to insulin or not enough insulin is produced to lower the blood sugars. To date, except for family history, there are no known risk factors for Type 1 diabetes. On the other hand, known risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include advancing age, family history, obesity, use of certain medications, sedentary lifestyle, and ethnicity. By reducing the risk factors, Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or its symptoms reduced. Symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 DiabetesThe majority of people who develop Type 1 diabetes will be on the thinner side. It is extremely rare to meet a Type 1 diabetic who is overweight. On the other hand, the majority of people with Type 2 diabetes will be overweight. The high-fat content in the body also plays a major role in developing insulin resistance. Type 1 diabetes usually presents with symptoms much earlier in life. In most cases, the diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes will be made between ages two and fifteen. Whereas the majority of Type 2 diabetes cases present when the individual is over 50 years of age. The symptoms in Type 1 diabetes generally present suddenly. The individual may present with a sudden fever, severe dehydration, frequent urination, ketones in the urine, or even be in a coma, and medical tests will reveal a lack of insulin in the body. However, with Type 2 diabetes, the symptoms may be vague, and the diagnosis can be delayed for a few months. Some individuals may develop a milder form of diabetes, called prediabetes, a few months or years before developing the full onset of Type 2 diabetes. Treatment for Type 1 and Type 2 DiabetesType 1 diabetes has only one treatment: insulin replacement. There is no other treatment for Type 1 diabetes and without insulin, death is very likely. Whereas Type 2 diabetes can be managed with diet, weight loss, medications, and/or insulin. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes tend to develop a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition is chiefly due to the lack of insulin. On the other hand, Type 2 diabetics tend to develop a condition called a hyperosmolar coma, which is chiefly due to the high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes and insulin treatment is required for life; on the other hand, with lifestyle changes, the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes can be reduced or even completely eliminated. Diabetes Can Be Managed, With Proper CareIrrespective of the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, all individuals with diabetes must follow up closely with their primary care provider. Diabetes is not a benign illness and can result in devastating complications that can result in loss of vision, kidneys, limbs, heart attacks, stroke, and even premature death if not treated appropriately. The key is to take steps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels every day. Cano Health has been specializing in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes care managementfor years and knows exactly how to apply that to senior care as well. Contact us today for more information about how to better live with the disease and manage it so you can live well. OverviewWhat is Type 2 diabetes?Type 2 diabetes is a disease where your body can’t use energy from food properly. Your pancreas produces insulin (a hormone) to help your cells use glucose (sugar). But over time your pancreas makes less insulin and the cells resist the insulin. This causes too much sugar to build up in your blood. High blood sugar levels from Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health problems including heart disease, stroke or death. Type 1 vs. Type 2 diabetes: What’s the difference?Type 2 diabetes is not the same as Type 1 diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, your pancreas doesn’t make any insulin. In Type 2, your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin, and the insulin it is making doesn’t always work as it should. Both types are forms of diabetes mellitus, meaning they lead to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Type 2 diabetes usually affects older adults, though it’s becoming more common in children. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children or young adults, but people of any age can get it. Who is at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?You’re more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes if you:
How common is Type 2 diabetes?Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. About 1 in 10 Americans have the disease. It’s the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes Type 2 diabetes?Type 2 diabetes develops when the pancreas makes less insulin than the body needs, and the body cells stop responding to insulin. They don’t take in sugar as they should. Sugar builds up in your blood. When cells don’t respond to insulin, this is called insulin resistance. It's usually caused by:
What are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes?Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes tend to develop slowly over time. They can include:
What are the complications of high blood sugar levels?Potential complications of high blood sugar levels from Type 2 diabetes can include:
Rarely, Type 2 diabetes leads to a condition called diabetes-related ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a life-threatening condition that causes your blood to become acidic. People with Type 1 diabetes are more likely to have DKA. Diagnosis and TestsHow is Type 2 diabetes diagnosed?The following blood tests help your healthcare provider diagnose diabetes:
Management and TreatmentHow is Type 2 diabetes managed?There’s no cure for Type 2 diabetes. But you can manage the condition by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking medication if needed. Work with your healthcare provider to manage your:
What should a Type 2 diabetes meal plan include?Ask your healthcare provider or a nutritionist to recommend a meal plan that’s right for you. In general, a Type 2 diabetes meal plans should include:
Will I need medication or insulin for Type 2 diabetes?Some people take medication to manage diabetes, along with diet and exercise. Your healthcare provider may recommend oral diabetes medications. These are pills or liquids that you take by mouth. For example, a medicine called metformin helps control the amount of glucose your liver produces. You can also take insulin to help your body use sugar more efficiently. Insulin comes in the following forms:
PreventionHow can I prevent Type 2 diabetes?You can prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes by:
Regular checkups and screenings with your healthcare provider can also help you keep your blood sugar in check. Outlook / PrognosisWhat is the outlook for Type 2 diabetes?If you have Type 2 diabetes, your outlook depends on how well you manage your blood glucose level. Untreated Type 2 diabetes can lead to a range of life-threatening health conditions. Diabetes requires lifelong management. Living WithWhen should I call my doctor?It’s important to monitor diabetes very closely if you’re sick. Even a common cold can be dangerous if it interferes with your insulin and blood sugar levels. Make a “sick day” plan with your healthcare provider so you know how often to check your blood sugar and what medications to take. Contact your provider right away if you experience:
A note from Cleveland Clinic Type 2 diabetes is a disease where your body doesn’t make enough insulin and can’t use sugar the way it should. Sugar, or glucose, builds up in your blood. High blood sugar can lead to serious health complications. But Type 2 diabetes is manageable. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help you manage your blood sugar. You may also need medication or insulin. If you have Type 2 diabetes, you should monitor your blood sugar at home regularly and stay in close communication with your healthcare provider. |