Type 1 or Type 2: What’s the Difference?

You can’t turn on the television without seeing a commercial for diabetic testing supplies and a variety of glucose meters. The term diabetes can sound ominous.

There are two categories of this disease. The first is ‘Type 1’ and typically afflicts children, but has been known to make its presence felt in early adulthood as well. This type of diabetes is non-preventative and demonstrates its menacing existence through low blood sugar events. It should be noted that ‘Type 1’ diabetes is non-preventable, although careful management is essential. Less than 10% of diabetics are ‘Type 1’.

The second variety is simply called ‘Type 2’ diabetes. There is little to suggest to those who have this type of diabetes that there is a problem at the onset of the disease. Unlike “Type 1”, this type generally afflicts those in adulthood and is marked by high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. Maintenance for this type of diabetes is generally found in following a healthy lifestyle, sustaining a healthy weight, a regular exercise regime, and following proper nutritional guidelines.

There have been a growing number of children and young adults that are diagnoses with ‘Type 2’ diabetes. This has triggered some rethinking in terms of the causal agents of ‘Type 2’. In turn, there is a heightened interest in preventative measures for all ages.

Serious complications can result from either type of diabetes and may include kidney failure, blindness, heart disease and stroke. Leg amputations are also a part of ongoing diabetic obstacles. For more information, please consult your doctor.