Type 1 and type 2 diabetes may differ in their signs and symptoms due to the nature of the diseases.
In type 1, there is little or no insulin production, so insulin given by injections or an insulin pump is absolutely necessary to live. This insulin deficiency may be brought on by an autoimmune response to a "trigger" (such as an illness caused by a virus), causing the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas to be destroyed.
With type 2, the insulin does not work efficiently or is not produced in sufficient amounts. This is known as insulin resistance. Exercise, weight loss, diabetes pills and/or insulin can help.
In both cases, sugar can not move into the body's cells without the assistance of insulin, thereby building up in the bloodstream where it can damage blood vessels.
Type 1 Signs & Symptoms typically come on suddenly and noticeably:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Increased hunger
- Sudden weight loss
- Little or no energy
Type 2 Signs & Symptoms usually occur very gradually and sometimes may be confused with the signs and symptoms of other ailments:
- Feeling tired
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Increased thirst, urination and hunger
- Dry, itchy skin
- Frequent infections
- Poor wound healing
If you feel that you have any of these signs and symptoms, you should seek medical attention. Delaying treatment of type 1 diabetes can be life-threatening. With type 2 diabetes, annual visits to your healthcare provider may catch its diagnosis before you notice signs and symptoms.
Some helpful links:
www.LillyDiabetes.com
www.diabetes.org
www.jdfcure.com
www.jdrf.org
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