Diabetes: Differences Between Type 1 and 2
In general, people with diabetes either have a total lack
of insulin (type 1 diabetes) or they have too little insulin or
cannot use insulin effectively (type 2 diabetes).
- Type 1 diabetes (formerly called juvenile-onset
or insulin-dependent diabetes), accounts for 5 to 10 out of 100 people who have
diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune
system destroys the cells that release
insulin, eventually eliminating insulin production
from the body. Without insulin, cells cannot absorb sugar (glucose), which they
need to produce energy.
- Type 2 diabetes (formerly called adult-onset or
non–insulin-dependent diabetes) can develop at any age. It most commonly
becomes apparent during adulthood. But type 2 diabetes in
children is rising. Type 2 diabetes accounts for the vast majority of people
who have diabetes—90 to 95 out of 100 people. In type 2 diabetes, the body isn't able to use insulin the right way. This is called insulin resistance.
As type 2 diabetes gets worse, the pancreas may make less and less insulin. This is called insulin deficiency.
How are these diseases different?
Differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
| Type 1 diabetes | Type 2 diabetes |
| Symptoms usually start in childhood or young
adulthood. People often seek medical help, because they are seriously ill from
sudden symptoms of high blood sugar. | The person may not have symptoms before diagnosis.
Usually the disease is discovered in adulthood, but an increasing number of
children are being diagnosed with the disease. |
| Episodes of low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia)
are common. | There are no episodes of low blood sugar level,
unless the person is taking insulin or certain diabetes medicines. |
| It cannot be prevented. | It can be prevented or delayed with a healthy
lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating sensibly, and
exercising regularly. |
How are they alike?
Both types of diabetes greatly
increase a person's risk for a range of serious complications. Although
monitoring and managing the disease can prevent complications, diabetes
remains the leading cause of blindness and kidney failure. It also continues to
be a critical risk factor for heart disease,
stroke, and foot or leg amputations.
|
By
| Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
| E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
| Jennifer Hone, MD - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism |
|
Last Revised
| September 26, 2012 |
Last Revised:
September 26, 2012
