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Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Key Differences You Should Know

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes
PET-Scan-vs-CT-Scan-Key-Differences-You-Should-Know Diabetes stands as the most common concern in the whole world, affecting people of all age categories. The main thing about diabetes is the processes by which the human body regulates and utilizes glucose (sugar) as energy. There are many types of diabetes, still, the main two types are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. In this article, we will discuss the difference between the two of them, so you can reach out to experts for correct diagnosis at the right time and begin the treatment.  For people with diabetes symptoms, a visit to the best endocrinology hospital in Hisar at Sarvesh Health City is recommended to get a detailed assessment and a customised treatment plan.

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks the body and kills the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. Without insulin, glucose will not be able to enter the cells to produce energy, which will result in extremely high blood sugar levels.

Key Features of Type 1 Diabetes:

Onset: Mostly, this condition affects children, teenagers, and young adults, however, any age can be the victim.

Cause: The main factor is the destruction of the islet cells by the immune system. Few research suggests the involvement of genetic and environmental factors as a cause of type 1 diabetes.

Insulin Dependence: People who suffer from Type 1 diabetes have to take insulin for their entire lives.

Symptoms: The symptoms in many cases are sudden and show up within weeks. The classical signs include, severe thirst, increased urination, and weight loss, tiredness, and blurred vision.

Moreover, if the disease is left without treatment, Type 1 diabetes will eventually lead to the occurrence of multiple organ failure known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is much more prevalent and therefore over 90% of all diabetes cases are this type. In contrast to Type 1, the pancreas is still producing insulin, but the body gets resistant to its use. In the long run the pancreas might also lose its ability to produce sufficient insulin.

Key Feature of Type 2 Diabetes:

Onset: Typically, the disease occurs in adults over 40, however, the obesity epidemic is leading to the diagnosis of more young people.

Cause: The main factors of type 2 diabetes are insulin resistance, heredity, and lifestyle factors such as inactivity and obesity.

Insulin Independence: At the beginning, the condition is controlled with lifestyle change and oral medication; insulin may still be required in the advanced stage.

Symptoms: The symptoms develop slowly as weakness, frequent urination, excessive thirst, slow-healing wounds, and sometimes no symptoms for a long time.

Risk Factors Involved in Both Types of Diabetes

While both types of diabetes are related to blood sugar regulation concerns, their risk profiles differ hugely:

Type 1 Diabetes:

  • Genetics: The risk of getting Type 1 diabetes goes up if you have a family history of it.
  • Age of Onset: It can show up at any time during life but is commonly found in children, teenagers, and young adults below the age of 40.
  • Environmental Triggers: Scientists believe the autoimmune response to the body can be brought on by the viruses that infect the body.

Type 2 Diabetes:

  • Advancing Age: After 40 years, the risk goes up, however, there are a lot of cases in young adults and teenagers now.
  • Ethnicity: The ethnic groups with the highest risk are South Asians, African-Caribbean, and Black African populations.
  • Lifestyle Factors: The main reasons are being overweight, physical inactivity or unhealthy dietary habits.
  • Family History: The likelihood of getting the disease is highest if your immediate family members have it.

Management of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a condition that affects the person’s lifestyle. The main objective is to replace insulin and keep the blood glucose levels as stable as possible.

  • Insulin Therapy: It is carried out via injections or pumps.
  • Blood Sugar Monitoring: Checking blood sugar regularly, using continuous glucose monitoring devices to get up-to-date information.

Diet & Exercise: Keeping a check on carbohydrate intake and giving a balanced nutrition to set the right insulin dose.

Management of Type 2 Diabetes

The treatment of type 2 diabetes usually involves a combination of different methods, starting with lifestyle changes and use of medication depending on the situation.

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight management are the main methods used to treat the disease.
  • Medications: Oral medications such as metformin facilitate the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Besides that, other drugs may lower glucose production or promote insulin secretion.

Insulin therapy: Some people need insulin in the last stages of the disease.

Final Thoughts

Whether it is type 1 diabetes or type 2, blood sugar regulation is a common problem. However, they vary in terms of cause, development, and treatment. The former is an autoimmune disorder calling for insulin replacement all through the patient’s life, and the latter is mostly a lifestyle condition and can be prevented in most cases by adopting healthy habits. 

The stage of disease recognition with early diagnostics and proper treatment is the shield against the occurrence of diabetes. If you are someone in Hisar region, you can visit the best endocrinology hospital in Hisar, Sarvesh Health City, for proper management of diabetes and the good quality of life.

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Alka-Bishnoi
Dr. ALKA BISHNOI

DIABETOLOGIST & ENDOCRINOLOGIST

Struggling with diabetes or hormonal issues? Consult Dr. Alka Bishnoi, top Diabetologist & Endocrinologist in Hisar for expert care and lasting relief.