Friday, July 07, 2006

Two Types of Diabetes and How They Differ

By A. Pruder

There are two types of diabetes, which consists of Type I and
Type II. It is important to understand the distinction between
the two and how both are treated.

Type 1 diabetes is commonly found in children and/or
adolescents, but may also occur in adults. With type 1
diabetes, there is almost always a complete deficiency of
insulin. As a result, the most common treatment is insulin
injections, a lifestyle that consists of both diet and exercise
and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels with the use of
blood testing monitors. Patients who have been diagnosed with
type 1 diabetes can continue to enjoy a normal life providing
they continue with their treatment and take special care to
follow their doctor’s instructions and/or recommendation.

With type 2 diabetes, an individual’s insulin level is usually
either normal or sometimes even elevated, but is not deficient.
This form of diabetes is believed to be more complicated than
type 1, but ironically is thought to be easier to treat.
Because insulin is still being produced inside the body, type 2
diabetes often goes undetected for years. Symptoms are milder
and may even be sporadic, which often reduces the level of
concern. The main problem with type 2 diabetes going unnoticed
is the potential for serious complications, including renal
failure and coronary artery disease. The initial treatment
phase of type 2 diabetes will likely include a lifestyle
adjustment to feature increased physical activity and a diet
that is geared toward weight loss. The next step, if necessary,
will be medication and possibly insulin therapy if needed.

Both types of diabetes require that the patient maintain normal
blood glucose levels in an effort to reduce the possibility of
organ damage, including eyesight, kidney, blood circulation,
etc. In order for this to occur, patients must carefully
monitor their food intake and make sure to participate in
regular exercise, all the while continuing to monitor their
blood glucose level.

As of 2006, there is no known cure for diabetes. A chronic
disease that effects many, diabetes is best treated through
patient education, nutrition, self awareness and long-term
care. In addition, patients are often urged to be aware of
other symptoms that may indicate complications arising from
diabetes.

The contents of this article are to be used for informational
purposes only. It should not be used in conjunction with, or in
place of, professional medical advice relating to diabetes. This
article must not be used as a basis for diagnosing or treating
diabetes, but rather an informational source designed to
explain the difference between the two types. For further
information, a diagnosis or recommended treatment method for
diabetes, individuals should consult a licensed physician.


About The Author: For more information about diabetes, click
the link to visit our website at http://www.diabetesreport.info.

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