What should you know about different type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

In type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin, so insulin replacement is needed to move glucose from the blood into cells. It can begin at any age and is not caused by eating a particular food. Type 2 diabetes develops when cells respond less effectively to insulin and the pancreas cannot keep up. Family history, age, body weight, activity, and other factors may contribute, but no single factor explains every diagnosis.

Both types can cause high blood glucose and may affect the eyes, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, and skin when not well controlled. Prediabetes is different from diabetes and can be identified through blood tests.

A care plan may include glucose checks, food and activity guidance, medicines, or insulin. Learn how to recognise low glucose, called hypoglycaemia, and keep follow-up appointments for blood pressure, cholesterol, feet, eyes, and kidney health. Tell your team about numbness, foot wounds, repeated skin infections, or changes in walking comfort because these can need early attention.

Get urgent medical help for severe vomiting, deep or rapid breathing, confusion, fainting, or difficulty staying awake. Treat suspected hypoglycaemia promptly using the plan given to you; seek emergency help if the person cannot swallow, has a seizure, or does not recover. A new foot wound with spreading redness or fever also needs prompt assessment.

Which type of diabetes do I have, and how was it confirmed? What glucose targets and medicines apply to me? How should I handle illness, exercise, missed doses, or low glucose?