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Types of diabetes

Article summary

  • The three main types of diabetes
  • Gestational diabetes
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • What are the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
  • Treatment

There are three main types of diabetes:

  • Gestational diabetes
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Type 2 diabetes

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy. It usually goes away after the baby is born.

During pregnancy, the body may not make enough insulin. Most people do not feel any symptoms, which is why testing is important.

Some people who have gestational diabetes may get type 2 diabetes later in life.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes used to be called “juvenile diabetes.” It is often found in children, teens and young adults, but anyone can get it.

With type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day.

Daily care is important, but you are not alone. Your health care team is here to help.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type. It often appears in adults, but more children now get it too.

With type 2 diabetes, the body makes insulin, but:

  • It may not be enough, or
  • The body cannot use it well

This causes high blood sugar, because sugar cannot move into the cells for energy.

What are the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Many people have type 2 diabetes and do not know it.

Some people have symptoms but may not recognize them.

Common symptoms include:

  • Peeing a lot
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Feeling very hungry
  • Losing weight without trying
  • Feeling tired
  • Blurry vision
  • Cuts that heal slowly
  • Tingling or numbness in the feet
  • Feeling sick to the stomach (less common)
  • Fast, shallow breathing
  • Sexual problems (for adults)

Treatment

Diabetes can affect many parts of your body.

Your doctor can help you make a plan that may include:

  • Checking your blood sugar
  • Planning healthy meals
  • Taking insulin
  • Taking other diabetes medicines
  • Exercising regularly
  • Managing blood pressure and cholesterol

Knowing your type of diabetes is the first step to getting the right care.

Regular checkups and testing can help you stay healthy and catch problems early.

Disclaimer

This information is general. Your doctor can give advice that is right for you.

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