In the UK, about 1 in 20 people have diabetes, and this statistic only includes those who have been diagnosed. The most common form is type 2 diabetes, while only 5-15% of cases are type 1. Although both types are forms of diabetes, they are quite different from each other.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that is typically diagnosed in children. People are born with it rather than developing it over time. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is often linked to a family history, poor diet, and being overweight. Type 1 diabetes tends to progress quicker than type 2, so if you think your child might have symptoms, see a doctor right away. While type 2 diabetes usually develops slowly and affects adults over 40, it’s becoming more common in younger people due to unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise.
Common signs of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes include vision problems, constant fatigue, and feeling very thirsty with a dry mouth. One symptom unique to type 1 diabetes is significant weight loss. People with type 2 may experience frequent yeast infections, easily bruised skin, and slow-healing wounds.
To diagnose diabetes, doctors might start with a simple urine test before doing a blood test. Although a urine test isn’t as precise, it can offer a good indication by checking for high glucose levels in the urine. If further testing is needed, a blood test called the Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) test might be done, requiring the patient to fast for at least 8 hours. Normal blood sugar levels range from 70-100 mg/dL, and a result over 126 mg/dL could mean a diabetes diagnosis. Ignoring diabetes symptoms can be very dangerous.
If you suspect that you or a family member might have diabetes, trust your instincts and visit your local GP as soon as possible. When in doubt, get it checked out!