Oftentimes, people will group Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes together, which is why we wanted to take a second and discuss the two. Although the two share many commonalities, they are also very different. Do you know the difference between the two? This post will help you find out.
What Are They?First, let’s talk about how they are the same for a second. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are chronic diseases that affect how your body uses and regulates glucose. Glucose is very important for cell function, and too high or too low levels will have adverse effects. Acute complications from diabetes, like ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia, are extremely dangerous and require emergency care. Chronic complications could result in significant damage to the eyes, kidneys, and other vital organs.
However, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different because of insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that allows your cells to use glucose. When the body has an issue with making insulin, this is what causes blood sugar levels to go haywire. In Type 1 diabetes, your body simply doesn’t make insulin. There is nothing that can be done about this, and the affected person will need to take man-made insulin in order to control blood sugar.
Type 2 diabetes is a little different as the body can make insulin, but it either does not make enough of it or its insulin response is abnormal. While someone with Type 2 diabetes may need to take man-made insulin, the condition can be managed or even reversed with lifestyle changes. Type 1 diabetes has no cure, and someone affected will need to inject insulin to manage blood sugar levels for the rest of his or her life.
Symptoms of both either form of diabetes include the following:
- Feeling very fatigued
- Frequent trips to the bathroom to urinate
- Extreme hunger or thirst
- Blurry vision
People with Type 1 diabetes may exhibit irritation and unintentional weight loss. Also, people with Type 2 diabetes may experience numbness or tingling in their extremities.
Please know that if you have either condition, it’s important to take care of yourself and follow your doctors’ orders. You should test and monitor your diabetes with diabetes supplies to ensure your condition is under control. Medical supplies delivery services are available if you need them to make sure that you are always stocked.
