The three main types of diabetes

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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.

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