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Type 1 diabetes
In type 1 diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas produce little or no insulin, the hormone that allows glucose to enter body cells. The body is unable to use glucose for energy despite high levels in the bloodstream, leading to increased hunger. This type of diabetes, also known as juvenile-onset diabetes, accounts for 10-15% of all people with the disease. It can appear at any age, although commonly under 40, and is triggered by environmental factors such as viruses, diet or chemicals in people genetically predisposed. To live, people with type 1 diabetes must inject themselves with insulin several times a day and follow a careful diet and exercise plan.
Symptoms are:
• increased thirst
• increased urination
• weight loss despite increased appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• fatigue
• absence of menstruation
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting 85-90% of all people with the disease. This type of diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes, is characterized by insulin resistance and insulin deficiency. A decreased utilization of glucose causes an increase of glucose concentration in the blood. There is an increased and abnormal mobilization of fats and a diminished protein anabolism. Glucose is also lost in the urine. Insufficient amounts of insulin are produced in the islets of Langerhans.
The disease is strongly hereditary, but lifestyle such as obesity, inactivity, high blood pressure and poor diet are major risk factors. Symptoms may not show for many years and, by the time they appear, significant problems may have developed such as cardiovascular disease. Type 2 diabetes can be treated by dietary changes, exercise and/or tablets. Insulin injections may later be required.
Symptoms are:
• increased thirst
• increased urination
• increased appetite
• fatigue
• blurred vision
• frequent and/or slow-healing infections (including bladder, vaginal, skin)
• erectile dysfunction in men
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