Diabetes Type 1 vs. Type 2
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes glucose (blood sugar), which serves as a vital source of energy. While both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes involve elevated blood sugar levels, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly.
What Is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body is unable to regulate blood sugar effectively.
This form of diabetes is commonly diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults, though it can occur at any age. The exact cause is still unknown but is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Common symptoms of Type 1 diabetes include:
- Sudden excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constant fatigue
- Blurred vision
Managing Type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump, along with regular blood sugar monitoring.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range. While it most commonly affects adults over 45, it is now increasingly seen in younger individuals due to rising obesity rates.
Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and being overweight. Genetics also play a role in its development.
Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes may include:
- Gradual onset of fatigue
- Increased thirst and urination
- Slow-healing wounds
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Unlike Type 1, Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight loss, and sometimes oral medications or insulin therapy.
Why Diabetes Management Is Important
If left unmanaged, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications such as:
- Heart disease
- Kidney damage
- Nerve damage
- Vision problems
Regular checkups and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels are essential for long-term well-being.
Need Help Managing Diabetes?
If you or a loved one is showing symptoms of diabetes or needs help managing the condition, our team at Westgate Family Physicians is here to support you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take control of your health.