AskDocDoc
/
/
/
what is diabetes and its types
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Endocrine & Hormonal Imbalances
Question #15005
45 days ago
124

what is diabetes and its types - #15005

Shivansh

I am really confused about this whole diabetes thing. A few weeks ago, I went to the doctor because I was feeling super thirsty and tired all the time, right? They did some tests and said my blood sugar levels were high. Now I really wanna understand what is diabetes and its types. Like, I’ve heard people mention Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but what does that all mean? I thought diabetes was just about high blood sugar, but then my cousin was talking about insulin shots and managing carbs, and I’m like, wait, what? It’s kinda overwhelming. And then my neighbor mentioned gestational diabetes and that just added to my confusion. Can someone break this down for me? What is diabetes and its types? Has anyone gone through anything similar? Are there specific symptoms for each type or is it just all the same? I’m trying to figure out what lifestyle changes are necessary too. Any help would be super appreciated! It’s all just kinda spinning in my head, ya know?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. It occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin, a hormone necessary for regulating blood glucose, or becomes resistant to its effects. There are several types of diabetes, but the most common are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It’s often diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can occur at any age. Management typically involves insulin therapy, which means regular insulin shots or using an insulin pump.

Type 2 diabetes is more common and can develop at any age, though it’s often associated with older age, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. In Type 2, the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. This type is managed through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, and may require oral medications or insulin therapy if needed.

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and affects how the body’s cells use sugar, leading to high blood sugar levels. This condition typically resolves after childbirth, but it does increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Common symptoms across these types include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Each type has specific management strategies, but lifestyle changes often involve adopting a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight to help control blood glucose levels. It’s essential to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to tailor a management plan to your specific needs and prevent complications.

9117 answered questions
81% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions