Types of Diabetes
There are 2 main types of diabetes. Type 1 and Type 2
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes occurs when:
- The pancreas produces no insulin
- Most of the insulin producing cells have been destroyed
- There is constant need to inject insulin into the body
Treatment
Type 1 is usually treated with insulin, balanced healthy diet and regular physical exercise.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 occurs when:
- The pancreas cannot produce enough insulin for the body's needs
- The body cannot use the insulin produced properly
Even though Type 2 is usually diagnosed later in adult life,
Children are now developing symptoms of Type 2 as well.
Treatment
Type 2 is usually treated with diet and physical exercise only or with tablets. Some Type 2 diabetics take a combination of insulin, diet, tablets and regular physical exercise.
About 85% of people with diabetes have Type 2
Other types of Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes occurs in women during pregnancy. It happens as a result of hormonal changes and demands made on the body by the growing baby during the pregnancy. About 60-65% of people who have gestational diabetes tend to develop Type 2 later on in life. The sugar level usually returns to normal after the birth of the child.
Treatment
It may be necessary to take insulin or just tablets in addition to the other medication for the pregnancy, plus healthy diet and regular exercise.
Secondary Diabetes
This is caused by other condition e.g. the use of certain medications like diuretics, steroids etc. or the inflammation of the pancreas.