Types of Diabetes
The three main types of diabetes are:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes
- Gestational diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Formerly called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers and young adults. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas makes little or no insulin.
Type 2 diabetes
Most people who have diabetes have this type. Most people with type 2 diabetes are older and overweight. However, it is becoming common in obese children. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes some insulin, but either it is not enough or the cells do not use it correctly.
Gestational diabetes
This affects pregnant women only, and it usually ends after the baby is born. Some women with gestational diabetes may develop type 2 diabetes later in life.
Treatment
Diabetes can affect many parts of the body so it's important to see a provider often to develop an individual treatment program. Your treatment program may include:
- Blood sugar monitoring
- Meal planning
- Taking diabetes medicines
- Taking insulin
- Exercising regularly
- Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol