HEALTH
World Diabetes Day 2023: What are the different types of diabetes and their symptoms?
The two main types are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes while there is also the less common gestational diabetes, some with similar symptoms but also without any.
Diabetes has two main versions of the illness: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. There are also less common forms such as gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Symptoms:
Symptoms
- Sudden onset
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue.
Type 2 Diabetes
This form of the illness is linked to lifestyle factors and genetics. It occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells resist the effects of insulin.
Symptoms
- Gradual onset
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
Gestational Diabetes
This less-common form develops during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms, or they may be mild
- Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed through routine screening during pregnancy