The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes-San Diego, California
One of the most frequently asked questions about diabetes is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. There are critical differences between the two types, including how each type is treated. Diabetes is a serious medical condition, and someone who has it is at risk of complications, so treatment is necessary. Here are some explanations of the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a condition that involves the metabolism of glucose in the body. Glucose is processed through a hormone called insulin. People who have diabetes have issues with this hormone.
- Type 1 Diabetes
People who have type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin and, therefore, cannot properly digest the sugars that are naturally found in foods. - Type 2 Diabetes
People with type 2 diabetes produce insulin, but the insulin is ineffective at processing sugars. Later in the disease, they may have issues producing enough insulin.
What Causes Diabetes
The cause of type 1 diabetes is not known, but it is thought to have connections with genetics or family history. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system of someone with it is confused. The immune system attacks the body’s healthy cells rather than just foreign invaders or threats to the body. When this happens, the pancreas is damaged and can not produce the insulin the body needs to digest glucose.
Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, is likely the result of diet and lifestyle choices. Although it is unknown exactly why people with type 2 diabetes have become insulin resistant, it is commonly linked to lack of exercise, obesity, and general inactivity. These risk factors are all related to the onset of type 2 diabetes.
How Does Diabetes Affect the Body?
In people who have either type of diabetes, the most common effect is high sugar levels in the body. Because the body either isn’t producing or using the insulin it produces, sugar levels will increase in the bloodstream.
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors
In type 1 diabetes, common risk factors include
- Inactivity
- Obesity
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease
- Gestational diabetes
- Family history
- Age
- Belly fat
What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes?
People with diabetes may have issues with weight. As the pancreas cannot work effectively, glucose can’t be digested, and the body may experience unexplained weight loss or weight gain. Other symptoms may include
- Blurry vision
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent infections
- Fatigue
- Extremely dry skin
- Moodiness and irritability
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
Treatment
It is imperative that people with diabetes receive medical care.
Type 1 diabetes can be treated using subcutaneous injections of insulin into soft tissue, such as the stomach or the upper thigh. As the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, the patient will need to inject insulin into the body. An insulin pump may also be used. People with this type of diabetes must monitor their blood sugar levels daily. However, type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented.
Type 2 diabetes can be treated and prevented with lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise. There are several medications available for people who have type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar monitoring is also an essential part of treating type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes will want to focus on consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh protein sources, and more water. Sugary snacks, drinks, and treats should be avoided.
Conclusion
With many treatments available for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the diagnosis of the disease doesn’t need to be cause for alarm. Treatment from a functional medicine practitioner can be the key to getting on track with diabetes treatment.
Advanced Functional Medicine
For practical assistance treating diabetes, turn to the experts at Advanced Functional Medicine. The leaders in functional medicine in the San Diego area, we focus on all-natural, nutritional, and functional ways to treat diabetes. We help you heal from the inside out. Visit our website to learn more about our services. We practice a practical and effective approach to healthcare to keep our patients happy and healthy.