Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the two chief forms of diabetes. They have different causes and for the most part, they affect different kinds of people. However, they are the same in some ways. Here are their similarities.
. Both are characterized by abnormalities of high blood sugar and increased breakdown of other nutrients.
. Both have lower secretion of insulin. Type 1 makes very little or no insulin at all while type 2 cannot cope with the demands because the body has become resistant to insulin.
. Both can suffer from complications affecting the eyes, heart, kidneys and nervous system. The high levels of blood sugar over a period of time may result in severe damage as foot ulcers, blindness, kidney failure, amputation, and malfunction of other organs. There is also an increased risk of developing stroke and heart disease. If not treated, high blood sugar can lead to severe dehydration, coma, and death.
Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in children and young adults. That is why it was once called juvenile-onset diabetes. Those who have type 1 diabetes need insulin treatment in order to survive. It also used to be known as insulin-dependent diabetes. No one knows why the body's immune system attacks the pancreas destroying the body cells there making it unable to manufacture insulin.
It is known though that heredity has something to do with type 1 diabetes. And it is a known fact that it is not caused by lifestyle of being overweight, obesity and lack of activity. However, don't ever think that lifestyle changes are not important because they are part and parcel of treatment. Controlling the blood sugar level is crucial to avoid complications.
For the disclaimer and more information on diabetes, please go to this site:
Free Diabetes Alert
No comments:
Post a Comment