In this blog we continue our discussion about diabetes with detail about the three major types.
Type 1 diabetes (previously known as insulin-dependent diabetes) is an auto immune disease in which certain proteins called antibodies destroy the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type of diabetes accounts for 5 to10% of all people with the disease. It can appear at any age but it is more common in children and young adults. People with type 1 diabetes require multiple daily insulin injections. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:
- Upset stomach and persistent nausea
- Increased thirst and hunger
- More frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Unexplained weight loss
Type 2 diabetes (previously known as non-insulin dependent diabetes) is by far the most common form affecting 90-95% of all people with the disease. It is also the type that may be controlled with diet and exercise. However, people may also require diabetes medication. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes are similar to type 1 and include:
- Increase thirst
- More frequent urination
- Frequent yeast infections
- Slow healing sores or abrasions
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Unexplained weight loss
Gestational Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels that are recognized during pregnancy. Almost all women have some degree of glucose intolerance as a result of hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy. Unlike the other forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes has no symptoms and is usually detected with a screening test.