What Is the Difference Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes

Most people know there are two types of diabetes – Type 1 and Type 2, but not everyone understands the differences. In both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels get dangerously high because the body isn’t able to produce insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar). Though both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are health conditions related to blood sugar levels, the causes are different.

Here’s what you need to know about the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TYPE 1 AND 2 DIABETES?

The primary difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is that type 1 is caused by an autoimmune reaction, whereas type 2 is primarily lifestyle and diet-related. 

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a genetic autoimmune disorder that typically develops and appears at an early age. When you have type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks and destroys the important insulin-producing cells in the pancreas and isn’t able to properly manage blood sugar levels. The good news is that modern treatments allow people with type 1 diabetes to manage diabetes symptoms and still live a relatively “normal” life.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is more common in the UK than type 1, it is typically caused by poor diet and an inactive lifestyle. If you are overweight, not eating a healthy diet, and not exercising then your risk of developing diabetes increases significantly. With type 2 diabetes, the pancreas can’t keep up with high blood sugar levels that are caused by sugary drinks and eating too many sweets and other foods that turn into sugar (such as certain carbohydrates).

SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 1 AND 2 DIABETES

Diabetes Symptoms of Type 1

The most common type 1diabetes symptoms include:

●     Increased thirst

●     Frequent urination

●     Unexplained weight loss

●     Fatigue and weakness

●     Blurred vision

Symptoms Of Diabetes Type 2

Symptoms of diabetes include:

●     Numbness and tingling in your feet and hands

●     Fatigue

●     Blurry vision

●     Increased hunger

●     Itchy skin

●     Excessive thirst

●     Frequent urination

If you’re exhibiting signs of diabetes, you can get tested at any Pearl Chemist Group pharmacy for diabetes with an A1C screening, which measures your blood sugar for the past 2-3 months.

Schedule an appointment today at Pearl Chemist Group at any of our South London branches.