Across the globe, a lot of people suffer from a chronic condition named diabetes. While you may be familiar with the term diabetes, you might be surprised to learn that there are several different forms of diabetes. Let’s look briefly at various types of diabetes in this blog.
What is diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that arises from excessive blood sugar (glucose) levels. In simpler words (what is diabetes), diabetes occurs when the body is unable to produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
Types of Diabetes
There are three main types of diabetes type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. It is important to understand the differences between these types of diabetes to manage the condition effectively.
Type 1 Diabetes:
A hormone called insulin helps in regulating blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body is unable to generate enough insulin. Although type 1 diabetes can happen in adults, it is typically diagnosed in children or adolescents. People with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin injections to keep their blood sugar levels under control.
Type 2 Diabetes:
Diabetes type 2 is the most widespread form. The body cannot efficiently use its insulin supply or produces insufficient amount of it when it has type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adults, but it can also affect children and adolescents. Diabetes type 2 risk factors include
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Advanced age.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, insulin.
Gestational Diabetes:
Gestational diabetes is the term used to describe diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It affects around 10% of pregnant women and usually disappears after childbirth. The chance of acquiring type 2 diabetes later in life is increased for women who have had gestational diabetes.
How to manage diabetes
Making lifestyle adjustments, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising frequently, and keeping track of blood sugar levels, are essential for managing diabetes. It is also important to take medications as prescribed and attend regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.
To summarize
Thus, type 1 diabetes managed with insulin only. However, you might be able to prevent more serious complications like kidney failure, eye -retinopathy and other problems with regular monitoring and commitment to treatment. And type 2 diabetes can be successfully managed or even reversed if you work closely with your doctor and adopt a healthy lifestyle. If you have gestational diabetes, it will probably go away once your child is born.
However, you have a greater chance of getting type 2 diabetes in later life. If you have diabetes, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage the condition effectively.
