Diabetes

What is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 1, or juvenile onset diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough, or any, insulin to maintain proper blood glucose levels. With Type 2 diabetes, the body produces the necessary amounts of insulin, but the body no longer recognizes it or is able to utilize it. Most people who have Type 1 diabetes were diagnosed at a very young age. Type 2 diabetes can be brought on by unhealthy lifestyle habits or changes in a person's health that alter how the body normally functions. Years of eating sweet foods, being overweight, and not exercising can cause a body to begin to function more slowly, allowing sugar to build up in the body. When this occurs, the body may no longer be able to properly utilize what insulin is produced resulting in diabetes and other complications.

What Health Conditions are Often Associated With Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that will continue to worsen progressively over time. Because of the fluctuations in the body's blood sugar levels, several areas of a person's health may be affected. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when the nerves become irritated by the fluctuations in blood flow. The diminished circulation that results from diabetes can lead to loss of vision, gangrene in the feet or hands, and the inability to heal after a cut or laceration. Another common health condition associated with diabetes is obesity. The inability to utilize insulin properly can cause a person to overeat, especially if the person does not exercise enough to burn off the excess glucose in the blood.

What Symptoms are Considered When Making a Diabetes Diagnosis?

There are several symptoms a doctor will look for when attempting to make a diabetes diagnosis. Unquenchable thirst, dizziness, inability to concentrate, and muscle weakness after not having eaten for an extended period of time are common signs doctors will look for when trying to determine whether or not a patient is diabetic. A person may also feel the need to urinate more often than usual and experience night sweats. Increased hunger and extreme fatigue are also good indicators. Blacking out is also a sign, especially if the person is in the advanced stages of the disease or has not been taking their insulin as prescribed.