When a doctor diagnoses you or a loved one with diabetes, it can be confusing to really understand the differences between Type 1 and Type 2. How exactly are they different? And, are they both caused from the same things? The experts from PrimaryPlus have been helping their patients for over 30 years with premier healthcare. Here, the team explains the two types.

A Brief Guide to Diabetes

How Diabetes Affects Patients

Collectively, both types of diabetes stem from having too high of blood sugar levels. The body can destroy cells in the pancreas, making it unable to produce a sufficient, if any, amount of insulin. People need insulin to move blood sugar and turn it into energy, but those with diabetes have trouble completing that process, resulting in having high blood sugar. Doctors will be able to diagnose patients as either Type 1 or Type 2. Both types need to be properly managed by the doctor and patient through insulin, medication, and lifestyle changes to avoid health conditions, like kidney disease, stroke, or eye problems.  

Type 1

Type 1 diabetes means your body doesn’t produce any insulin, so you’re left with a surplus of blood sugar. This is an autoimmune disease because the immune system attacks the cells that convert into insulin, thus not creating energy the body needs. Type 1 is the least common of the two and most often affects people at a young age. Additionally, this form of diabetes cannot be prevented or cured, but a doctor can customize a plan to help you manage it.

Type 2

As the most common type, Type 2 diabetes involves someone whose body has become resistant to using insulin effectively. This type is often found among patients who are overweight, have low physical activity, or have a family history of it. While Type 2 can be diagnosed by a doctor at any age, preventative measures and a healthy lifestyle can be critical in delaying the onset. For those with pre-diabetes, a routine medical exam plays a crucial role as well.

If you think you have diabetes, visit the team of specialists at PrimaryPlus. Not only do they have an excellent team of medical providers, they have a great diabetes support system through their trademarked WeCare® program which includes Diabetes Case Managers, Pharmacist, Certified Diabetes Educators, Registered Dietitians and more.  Whether you are searching for a place to get a regular medical exam to manage a health condition or need a pediatrician or OB/GYN, PrimaryPlus has a doctor for all of your needs. To learn more about all of the services their team offers, visit their website, or call your local PrimaryPlus office to schedule an appointment.