US Medical Supplies Blog

There are two types of Diabetes, called Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. They differ in many ways, but both affect the way insulin is used or created in the body. There are over twenty million Americans that have diabetes, with seniors making up around 20%.

In those that have Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Insulin, which is a kind of hormone, is used by the body to break down glucose. Glucose, which is a type of sugar, is used by the body as a sort of fuel.

As a result of decreased insulin production, the glucose is not properly broken down and removed from the blood stream. Initially, Type 1 diabetes had been referred to as “Juvenile Diabetes”, since it was very common in children, but it can affect people of all ages.

Type 1 Diabetes represents about 10% of all diabetes cases in North America and Europe. Currently there is no known way to prevent Type 1 Diabetes, so treatment is maintained throughout an individuals life. Typically, through careful blood sugar monitoring and supplemental insulin injections, an individual is able to safely control Type 1 Diabetes.

The other type of diabetes is called Type 2 Diabetes. In Type 2 Diabetes, the body will form a resistance to insulin, making it ineffective. Sometimes, the production of insulin will also be reduced or even stop all together. While the exact causes of Type 2 Diabetes are unknown, scientists have several theories as to its cause and have noticed some patterns in those affected by it.

Obesity is one factor that is found in about 55% of those with Type 2 Diabetes. It is also common in seniors and families that have a history of the disease. Studies have found that a proper diet and regular exercise can help to prevent this type of diabetes, this is especially important in those with a family history of Type 2 Diabetes.

Treatment usually involves careful diet management and exercise to begin with, but there are also medicines available that help make the body sensitive to insulin again.

There are several other types of Diabetes, but they all fall into the category of either Type 1 Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes.

Gestational diabetes falls into the category of Type 2 diabetes. This is because it involves the body poorly using its insulin and not producing enough insulin. It occurs in between 2% and 5% of all pregnancies, but often subsides or completely disappears after delivery. Up to 50% of women that contract gestational diabetes will go on to develop Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Common Symptoms and Conditions

Those that have Type 1 Diabetes, will have to carefully monitor their blood level to prevent Hypoglycemia or Hyperglycemia.

Hypoglycemia refers to when your body does not have enough glucose or sugar in the blood stream. Often called having low blood sugar, some symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, headache, hunger, and shakiness. Typically in the case of Hypoglycemia, an individual can eat a piece of hard candy, drink some fruit juice or take glucose tablets to get more glucose into their body.

Hyperglycemia is the opposite of hypoglycemia and refers to when there is too much glucose in the blood. Frequently referred to as having high blood sugar, an individual with Hyperglycemia will have an increased thirst and frequent urination.

If left untreated, Hyperglycemia can lead to a condition known as diabetic coma or ketoacidosis. This is when your body runs out of insulin and begins to break down fat for energy. Ketoacidosis gets its name from the excess ketones that are produced when the fat is broken down. Some symptoms of ketoacidosis include nausea, very dry mouth, breath that smells fruity, and shortness of breath. Due to how detrimental, ketoacidosis can be, carefully dealing with Hyperglycemia is very important.

Typically, exercising can help lower blood glucose levels, but if you are experiencing ketoacidosis, exercise can be very dangerous. The urine can be checked for ketones, which indicate ketoacidosis. A healthy diet can also help control blood sugar, but it is extremely important to talk with your doctor about how to safely lower your blood sugar.

Learn More

Diabetes is a disease that is becoming more and more common in America. It is a good idea to talk with your doctor about diabetes, especially if you are at risk due to obesity or family history.

With almost a quarter of people with diabetes being undiagnosed, it is a good idea to also visit the American’s with Diabetes Association’s website, to learn more about diabetes, its, symptoms, and how it is treated.