At A Glance
Heard that there are different types of diabetes? Ever wondered what Type 1 Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes is? Heard that diabetes can be reversed or controlled by diet alone? Diabetes 101 aims to provide a brief summary of the different elements of the condition. (Though if medical terminology is too complicated please step into Pancreasia to dispel some of the myths around diabetes).
What is Diabetes?
It is chronic long-term health condition characterised by the body’s inability to effectively regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels. In healthy adults (non-diabetics), the hormone insulin (produced in the pancreas) facilitates the transfer of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it’s used for energy. For diabetics, this process doesn’t work correctly, leading to high blood glucose levels, however with the right treatment, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups, people with diabetes can live full and active lives.
Why are there different types of diabetes?
Because the underlying cause of the raised blood glucose level (the main symptom of Diabetes) can be the result various abnormal physiological processes in the body. All types of diabetes involve complications with the hormone insulin which controls the body’s blood glucose levels.
Symptoms of diabetes1
- Toilet – going for a wee a lot, especially at night.
- Thirsty – being really thirsty.
- Tired – feeling more tired than usual.
- Thinner – losing weight without trying to.
- Cuts and wounds take longer to heal.
- Blurred eyesight.
- Breath that smells sweet or fruity (like nail polish remover or pear drop sweets).
- Increased hunger.
What happens if diabetes is left untreated?
If diabetes is not treated, the effect on the body is that blood sugar levels stay too high for too long. This can cause both short-term emergencies and long-term complications. Untreated diabetes can cause, permanent damage to the body. In type 1 diabetes, it can be life-threatening very quickly.
Short term
- Extreme thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, weight loss (especially in untreated type 1).
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): mainly in type 1 diabetes — a life-threatening condition caused by very high blood sugar and ketone build-up, leading to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and coma.
- Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS): mainly in type 2 diabetes — very high blood sugar without ketosis, causing severe dehydration, confusion, seizures, and coma.
Long-term Complications
- Heart disease & stroke – due to damage to blood vessels.
- Kidney disease – may lead to kidney failure.
- Nerve damage (neuropathy) – causing pain, tingling, numbness, or digestive problems.
- Eye damage (retinopathy) – risk of blindness.
- Poor circulation & slow wound healing – can lead to infections, ulcers, or even amputations.