Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes – Which one is more dangerous and why

A chronic, irreversible and life-long condition, Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide - for those who have this condition, it is either Type 1, or Type 2 diabetes. While both of them cause high blood sugar levels, but both have different causes, symptoms, treatments, and risks.

However, is one more dangerous than the other? Let's take a look...

Understanding DiabetesDiabetes is a chronic, lifelong, and irreversible condition where the body is unable to control blood sugar levels. It occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, or when the body doesn't use insulin effectively. In such a case, the individual has to manage his/her glucose through medication, insulin and diet control.What Is Type 1 Diabetes?Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. Because of this, the body stops making insulin altogether, or produces very little. Type 1 Diabetes is usually not due to lifestyle factors.Type 1 usually develops suddenly, and can start in childhood. It is caused by an immune system attack, possibly triggered by genetic and environmental factors.

Initial symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, weight loss, fatigue, and blurry vision. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to survive.What Is Type 2 Diabetes?Type 2 diabetes develops over time and is more common in adults, post 40, though younger adults can also get it.The body either does not produce enough insulin, or the cells become resistant to insulin (insulin resistance).

Obesity, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, genetic etc. They develop slowly and can be mild at first, including increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing wounds. Over time, the symptoms become more prominent. It includes lifestyle changes and oral medications.

Insulin may be needed later.Both equally dangerousBoth types of diabetes are serious, and can cause life-threatening complications if not managed well.

However, the dangers differ in nature and timing. Let's see how...How does Type 1 Diabetes affect usType 1 diabetes can be more dangerous in the short term, because without insulin, blood sugar levels rise quickly. This can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), where the body produces harmful acids (ketones) due to lack of insulin. DKA can cause coma or even death.

Because Type 1 develops suddenly and requires lifelong insulin, missing insulin doses or delayed diagnosis can be life-threatening.How does Type 2 Diabetes affect usType 2 diabetes often develops slowly, and there might be no signs, at least initially. If uncontrolled, Type 2 diabetes can cause serious complications such as:Heart disease Brain strokeKidney failureVision lossNerve damageSlow healing woundsSince Type 2 is linked to lifestyle, it can worsen over time without proper management.Similarities in RisksBoth types of diabetes increase the risk of:Cardiovascular conditionsKidney damageEye problemsNerve damageIncreased infectionsHow to manage diabetes symptomsType 1 diabetes requires careful insulin management every day. People must monitor blood sugar levels frequently, and adjust insulin doses. Early diagnosis is critical.Type 2 diabetes can often be managed initially with diet, exercise, and medications. Controlling weight and blood sugar levels can delay or prevent complications. Insulin might be needed later.