Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions, impacting over 1.7 million Australians. It impacts the way our bodies process sugar, which is essential for energy - but not all diabetes is the same. Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes each work quite differently and need to be managed as such.
Understanding the differences is key to managing your health, and the good news is that with the right approach, diabetes doesn’t have to control your life. Let’s break it down so you can take action, whether for yourself or someone you care about. Firstly, let's dive into one of the most frequently asked questions on the topic, what is diabetes?
What is diabetes? An overview
Ordinarily, insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas) works to move sugar from your bloodstream into cells that can be used for energy. However, when you have diabetes, this process doesn't work correctly. Either the body struggles to make enough insulin, can't make any at all, or can't use it effectively. The result is high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health issues if left unchecked.
The three types of diabetes are:
- Type 1 diabetes, where the body doesn't produce insulin. This is treated with lifelong insulin therapy.
- Type 2 diabetes, where the body doesn't use insulin correctly. This is often linked to lifestyle factors and can be managed with diet, exercise, and medication.
- Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and generally goes away after childbirth - though it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Now that we've answered what is diabetes in general terms, let's take a closer look at the different types you may be diagnosed with.
What is type 1 diabetes? causes, symptoms, and treatment
In a nutshell, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks the cells in the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. Without insulin, the body can't move glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells that give you energy.
Typically developing in children or young adults, type 1 diabetes calls for close monitoring of your blood sugar levels and lifelong insulin therapy. Common symptoms include incessant thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and constant fatigue.
Keeping your blood glucose within a healthy range helps to prevent serious complications like nerve or kidney damage that can occur if the condition goes untreated.
What is type 2 diabetes? Causes, risk factors, and prevention
Type 2 diabetes sets in when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't make enough of it to keep your blood sugar levels in check. Unlike type 1 (where the body doesn't produce insulin at all), type 2 diabetes occurs when your body struggles to use it correctly.
It often develops in adults but is becoming more common among young people. Some key factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition include obesity, lack of physical activity, and family history. Poor diet and an inactive lifestyle are the biggest contributors but genetics can also play a part.
The good news is that making some lifestyle changes goes a long way to managing and preventing type 2 diabetes. Eating a balanced diet, moving your body regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight make all the difference. This can help your body better use insulin and keep your blood sugar levels stable.
What is gestational diabetes? Causes, risks, and management during pregnancy
If you have gestational diabetes, it will generally be detected around the 24th to 28th week of your pregnancy. It comes about when your body can't produce enough insulin to handle the increased blood sugar that comes along with being pregnant. While it typically goes away after your baby has been born, it's important to manage the condition carefully during your pregnancy.
Certain factors increase the risk of gestational diabetes, including being overweight, being over the age of 25, or having a family history of diabetes. It's also more common for women who have had the condition during previous pregnancies or have given birth to a child that weighed over 4kg.
Managing gestational diabetes is important to ensure there are no complications for mother and baby. It can cause excessive birth weight, premature birth, or low blood sugar for the little one. For the mother, it increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. To keep this condition in check and ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby, you'll need to regularly monitor your blood glucose levels, follow a balanced diet, and stay active.
Managing diabetes and knowing when blood sugar levels are dangerous
Regardless of the type of diabetes you have, keeping an eye on your blood glucose levels is one of the most important aspects of managing the condition. Knowing your numbers and understanding how your body responds to exercise, food, stress, and medication can prevent serious complications.
Blood sugar levels can become dangerous when they are too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia).
Hyperglycemia
- Typically occurs when blood sugar levels rise above 10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL) after eating
- Becomes more concerning if levels exceed 15.0 mmol/L (270 mg/dL)
- Can lead to long-term damage to organs and nerves if not managed
Hypoglycemia
- Occurs when blood sugar falls below 4.0 mmol/L (70 mg/dL)
- Can cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and in extreme cases, unconsciousness
To maintain healthy blood sugar levels, it’s essential to follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take medications as prescribed. Incorporating plenty of fiber-rich foods while avoiding sugary snacks can help manage glucose levels effectively. Staying physically active also supports your body in using insulin more efficiently, and regular check-ups with your healthcare provider ensure your management plan stays on track. For those using insulin pumps, proper care and usage are crucial for maintaining stable glucose levels, as these devices deliver insulin continuously, closely mimicking your body’s natural insulin response. If you have appropriate Hospital Cover, you can claim an insulin pump through HIF when treated as an inpatient. For instance, if you’re hospitalised due to diabetes and require an insulin pump, HIF will pay a benefit towards the cost of the pump, your doctor’s fees (up to the MBS amount), and other relevant expenses. Note that a 12-month waiting period applies for pre-existing conditions, and a 2-month waiting period applies for general hospitalisation. Insulin pump fittings as an inpatient are covered under Silver Plus Hospital and Gold Top Hospital cover.
'What is diabetes in simple words?' and other FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions related to 'what is diabetes'.
What is diabetes in simple words?
Diabetes is a condition where your body struggles to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. This happens because the body either doesn’t make enough insulin - a hormone made by the pancreas - or can’t use it properly.
What happens when you're diagnosed with diabetes?
When you're diagnosed with diabetes, your doctor will likely check your blood sugar regularly and suggest lifestyle changes like adjusting your diet and exercising. Depending on the type and severity, you may also need medication or insulin therapy. The goal is to manage blood sugar levels to prevent any complications.
What triggers type 1 diabetes?
In short, type 1 diabetes is triggered when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic factors and possibly viral infections.
What is the main cause of type 2 diabetes?
The main cause of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t use insulin properly. It’s often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight, although genetics can also play a role.
What level of blood sugar is dangerous for type 2 diabetes?
For someone with type 2 diabetes, a blood sugar level above 10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL) after a meal or consistently over 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL) fasting is considered high. A dangerously high level (hyperglycaemia) can occur at 15.0 mmol/L (270 mg/dL) or higher, requiring immediate action.
Will my baby be ok if I have gestational diabetes?
With proper management, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have healthy babies. It’s important to monitor blood sugar levels, follow a balanced diet, stay active, and take medication if necessary. Regular check-ups will help to reduce the risks to both you and your baby.
Can diabetes be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for diabetes. However, type 2 diabetes can be managed and even put into remission with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy, and gestational diabetes usually resolves after pregnancy but requires monitoring.
Final thoughts
As demonstrated, diabetes is a condition that affects how your body handles blood sugar, with different types needing different diabetes management. Whether you're living with type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes, understanding how each works is the first step in staying healthy. By managing your blood sugar, adjusting your lifestyle, and working closely with your doctor, diabetes can be effectively controlled.
If you've found this deep dive into what is diabetes useful, you can find more tips and information on management by exploring HIF’s handy resources. And please don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalised advice on managing your condition.
Please note: Kirsty's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your healthcare professional.