What is are the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?
Main things Im looking for are:
Cause
Treatment
Lifestyle changes
Stuff like that..
Thanks =]
Cause:
-type 1 is usually autoimmune (body attacks insulin producing cells)
-type 2 is usually insulin resistance that the body can’t keep up with. That is, the body needs more and more insulin to fulfill normal insulin requirements. Not all with insulin resistance develop diabetes. Insulin resistance is usually due in part to excess weight and poor diet. Genetics play a role, but not in a clear "1 gene causes this" type of way. It’s likely the interations of many, many genes and environment.
treatment:
-type 1s need insulin, although it can be injected or with a pump
-type 2s vary. Ranges from diet and exercise alone (fairly rare) to various meds to insulin.
lifestyle changes:
-for both, diet is really important.
-type 1s have to pay really close attention to diet since how much insulin is given depends upon food intake. On the other hand, type 1s can adjust insulin depending upon food so it’s easier to "cheat" by just giving extra insulin. Requires a lot of planning–testing blood sugar frequently, snacking depending upon when insulin was given, blood sugars, etc. Exercise is important, but has to be planned for to avoid/minimize low blood sugars.
-type 2s: since most are overweight, diet and exercise are very important. Weight loss should be a goal and can even help to slow down the disease process.
Check on the American Diabetes Association website for more information.
