DR. INDU ARORA

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is called insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile onset diabetes mellitus where the pancreas is incapable of making insulin. IDDM usually occurs in people before 30 years of age, however, older patients may also suffer from a similar condition known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA).

Type 2 diabetes is called non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult onset diabetes mellitus (AODM). Here, the patients can still produce insulin, but in a defective pattern which means over or under production. Type 2 diabetes occurs mostly in individuals over 30 years of age, but may affect the age group below as a direct result of poor eating habits, higher body weight, and lack of exercise.

“Secondary” diabetes arises due to other medical conditions like the destruction of the pancreatic tissue, chronic pancreatitis, trauma, or surgical removal of the pancreas. Diabetes can also result from other hormonal disturbances, such as excessive growth hormone production (acromegaly) and Cushing’s syndrome.

Physical Symptoms

Increased urine output

Excessive thirst with dry mouth

Unusually high appetite

Excessive weight loss or gain

Fatigue, nausea, vomiting

Prone to bladder, skin and vaginal infections

Blurred vision, lethargy

Tingling or numbness in the hands, legs or feet