Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Understanding the Key Differences.

Dr.Monika Sharma, 2 mins read

Diabetes is a common medical condition in which the body fails to produce enough insulin or can't effectively utilise the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone which is produced by the pancreas that helps in the breakdown of glucose. When it is insufficient or ineffective, blood sugar levels become too high. 

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Although both are associated with high blood sugar levels, they differ significantly in terms of their development, impact, and treatment. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between these two types of diabetes.

What Is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. This means the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. As a result, the body stops producing insulin completely. 

It usually starts in childhood or adolescence. The cause is not fully known, but genes and environment may play a role. Its treatment requires daily insulin injections or an insulin pump for life. The symptoms may appear suddenly like increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and tiredness.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly. This is called insulin resistance that usually develops in adults over 40 years, but now also seen in teens and children. It is highly linked to lifestyle factors like being overweight, inactive, or eating unhealthy foods.

Its symptoms appear more slowly and often go unnoticed. These can often be managed with diet, exercise, and oral medications or may require insulin if blood sugar remains uncontrolled.

Key Differences:-

Why Is It Important to Know the Difference?

Knowing the type of diabetes is important because the treatment plans are different. Type 1 requires insulin every day. Type 2 can sometimes be managed without insulin, especially in the early stages. Both types need blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, and regular exercise to stay under control.

Takeaway!

While both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes involve high blood sugar, their causes, symptoms, and treatments are different. They can be managed effectively with proper care, support, and awareness. If you or someone you know has signs of diabetes, like frequent urination, constant thirst, tiredness, or unexplained weight loss, consult our diabetes expert at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka for early diagnosis and treatment.