Diabetes Facts

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 DIABETES?

Type 1 Diabetes

• Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disease with symptoms that can be controlled or treated, but that don’t go away.
• his disease strikes suddenly and without warning.The cause is a non-functioning pancreas, which leaves the body without insulin.
• Type 1 diabetics must put insulin into their bodies to live.
• Onset is most often in childhood, but can also occur during adulthood.
• Potential complications of type 1 diabetes include kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, heart attack, amputations and stroke.

Type 2 Diabetes

• Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder.
• The pancreas works, but not well.
• This disorder often can be controlled by making changes in life choices, such as diet and exercise..
• Most type 2 diabetics do not take insulin.
• Potential complications of type 2 diabetes are the same as type 1, and include kidney failure, blindness,nerve damage, heart attack, amputations and stroke.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS FOR TYPE 1 DIABETES?

Knowing the warning signs for type 1 (juvenile) diabetes could save a life. Warning signs of type 1 diabetes (these may occur suddenly):

• Extreme thirst
• Frequent urination
• Sudden vision changes
• Sugar in urine
• Fruity, sweet, or wine-like odor on breath
• Increased appetite
• Sudden weight loss
• Drowsiness, lethargy
• Heavy, labored breathing
• Stupor, unconsciousness

If you or someone you love exhibits one or more of these symptoms, call a doctor immediately. Education about the symptoms of type 1 diabetes is critical as they can easily be mistaken for more common illnesses, such as the flu.

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