Diabetes comes in several forms, each with unique causes, symptoms, and treatments. Knowing the differences can empower you to better manage the condition or support someone living with it.
Type 1 Diabetes
What is it? An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas, preventing insulin production.
Who is affected? Usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can develop at any age.
Management: Requires daily insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, and lifestyle management.
Type 2 Diabetes
What is it? A condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.
Who is affected? Most common in adults over 45, though increasingly seen in younger populations.
Management: Often managed through lifestyle changes like food intake and exercise, as well as medications (including insulin).
Gestational Diabetes
What is it? A form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Who is affected? Pregnant individuals who do not have a prior diabetes diagnosis.
Management: Often resolved after delivery, but increases risk for Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Other Types
Prediabetes: A precursor to Type 2, where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet at the level of diabetes.
MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young): A rare, genetic form of diabetes.
LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults): A slower-developing auto-immune form of Type 1 diabetes that usually is diagnosed in adults.
Understanding these types can help identify symptoms early and choose the best management plan. If you’re unsure about your diabetes type or have questions, reach out to your healthcare provider or sign up for virtual care with eddii-Care.
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