Many people feel that too much attention is given to Type 2 diabetes and not enough to Type 1 Diabetes. This may be because 85-90% of cases are Type 2 diabetes compared to 10-15% of Type 1 diabetes cases. However this doesn’t make one more serious than the other. In fact, both are just as complex and serious as the other. Learn about the differences and similarities between the two so you can understand your risk of developing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and be able to identify the early signs and symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
3 most common types of Diabetes
The main difference between Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes is the speed of onset. Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes usually develops quickly over a few days or weeks whilst symptoms of Type 2 diabetes usually develops gradually. The other major difference is the management of the two types of diabetes. Type 1 is managed with insulin whilst Type 2 is managed first with lifestyle modifications and then medications and/or insulin.
Comparing Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms & Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms
The symptoms experienced by people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are generally the same. The main difference is unexplained weight loss in Type 1 diabetes compared with gradual weight gain in Type 2 diabetes.
Comparing Type 1 Diabetes Risk Factors with Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors
For both types of diabetes, having a family history increases your risk of developing that particular type of diabetes. However, in families with a history of Type 1 diabetes, there is no way to prevent it. In comparison, families with a history of Type 2 diabetes may be able to prevent its onset through modifications in their lifestyle risk factors such as high blood pressure, weight, physical activity and diet.
Helpful tools are available online to provide a quick assessment of your risk of diabetes. It is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure about your risk.