Diabetes Q & A

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes typically occurs between the ages of 4 and 14, but it can develop at any age. When you have Type 1 diabetes, your pancreas can’t produce insulin. Without insulin, levels of blood sugar get too high.

Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 90-95% of all cases of diabetes, is most often diagnosed in adults over the age of 45, but it can appear at an earlier age. The pancreas produces insulin, but not enough to keep blood sugar levels normal.

Patients with Type 2 diabetes also have insulin resistance, so their body doesn’t use the insulin available.

Are you at risk for diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes arises from an autoimmune condition that’s determined by your genetics, so you can’t lower your risk.

Type 2 diabetes is different. It’s estimated that 90% of all cases of Type 2 diabetes could be prevented by taking steps to change the top three risk factors: overweight, high blood pressure, and lack of exercise.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Symptoms appear quickly in patients with Type 1 diabetes. By comparison, symptoms develop gradually over the years in those with Type 2 diabetes. Both types, however, have the same symptoms:

• Increased thirst

• Frequent urination, often at night

• Blurry vision

• Increased hunger

• Fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

• Dry skin

• Sores that heal slowly especially on feet

How is diabetes managed?

There’s no cure for diabetes, so the goal of treatment is to keep your blood sugar within a normal range. To maintain your blood sugar, Dr. Carley develops a customized management plan that may include:

Dietary and lifestyle changes

Some patients with Type 2 diabetes can keep their blood sugar stabilized with diet and lifestyle changes. Carbohydrates affect blood sugar, so you’ll learn which carbs to avoid and how to safely include carbs in your diet to prevent spikes in blood sugar. Losing weight if needed and following a routine exercise plan also help lower blood sugar.

Medication

Patients with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin and regularly check their blood sugar. Some patients with Type 2 diabetes may need insulin or another type of medication that helps lower blood sugar.

Does diabetes lead to health complications?

High blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to:

• Heart disease

• Kidney disease

• Skin infections

• Nerve damage

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment, call Carley Family Care or book an appointment online.