Type 1 diabetes mellitus and type 2 diabetes mellitus

In type 1 diabetes, the immune system damages the insulin-making cells of the pancreas. Insulin is needed to keep glucose from building up in the blood. Type 1 can appear at any age and is not caused by eating a particular food.

In type 2 diabetes, cells respond less effectively to insulin and the pancreas may not keep up with demand. It often develops gradually, and some people first notice Excessive Thirst, Frequent Urination or Bedwetting. Prediabetes can precede type 2, but it is not the same diagnosis.

Treatment is individual. Type 1 care includes insulin, glucose monitoring and a plan for meals, activity and illness. Type 2 care may include lifestyle changes, tablets, injectable medicines or insulin. A Diabetes Education Programme can teach monitoring, sick-day planning and recognition of Hypoglycaemia. Reviews help adjust care as needs change.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for marked thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, vomiting or increasing weakness. Urgent help is needed for confusion, fainting, deep or rapid breathing, or inability to keep fluids down. If a low-glucose episode causes a seizure or the person cannot swallow, call emergency services.

Ask which type you have, how it was confirmed, what your medicines do, how often to monitor glucose, and what to do when you are ill or unable to eat normally.