What is Diabetes?
There are several different types of Diabetes, including Type 1 (juvenile), Type 2 (adult-onset), MODY, and gestational diabetes. While each is a type of diabetes, the treatment methods can greatly vary, from shots and frequent bg checks, to having a good exercise plan and strict diet. I have type 1, and am required to take shots and check my blood glucose many times a day.
TYPE 1--IDDM--The beta cells in the pancreas stop producing insulin. Researchers are still unsure of what causes Type 1, but in many cases, they suspect that a virus has attacked the body, and the immune system starts destroying its own cells. People with Type 1 are required to take injections of insulin, usually a combination of a long-acting insulin (NPH, Lente, or Ultralente) and a shorter-acting insulin (Humalog, Regular) in 2 or more injections per day. Also, some people use insulin pumps which only use the shorter-acting insulins. Research is being done into inhaled insulin, which is like an asthmatic inhaler, used before meals. The inhaler is only in the trial stages now, so no promises. Injections of long-acting insulin are still required with the inhaler.
TYPE 2--NIDDM-the beta cells may produce little or no insuin. Some patients with type 2 produce insulin, but they are insulin resistant, meaning their bodies do not properly use this insulin. Type 2 can be treated using a variety of treatments, including exercise, diet, pills, and sometimes insulin injections. Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes, affecting over 15 million Americans.
MODY--(complicated to explain) Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young....non-insulin dependent diabetes which usually affects people under the age of 25. There are 3 forms of MODY, which are dominantly inherited. Patients with MODY can usually control it with any of the following treatments: losing weight (if obese), following a diet and exercise plan, and using drugs--pills or insulin.
GESTATIONAL--occurs in about 4% of pregnant women, when the body is no longer able to produce enough insulin to cover the patient's needs during pregnancy. It is extremely important for pregnant women to seek treatment if they have gestational diabetes, because if they don't, the diabetes can harm both the expectant mother and the baby. In most cases, the diabetes disappears after pregnancy, but not in every case.
No matter what type of diabetes you have, it is important to see a medical professional (diabetologist, endocrinologist, Certified Diabetes Educator, PCP, Internist, or what have you) experienced in dealing with diabetes. It is important that this professional work with you to control your diabetes. Remember, it is essential to maintain good blood glucose control to prevent complications. You should have your Hba1c tested throughout the year too. (I have mine done every 3 months)
Return to Home Page
Next
