Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, but it encompasses several distinct conditions. The most common are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes — and confusing the two leads to delayed diagnosis and incorrect treatment.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. This leaves the body unable to produce insulin — a hormone essential for allowing glucose to enter cells for energy.
Without insulin, blood glucose rises dangerously. T1D typically presents in childhood or young adulthood but can occur at any age. It is not caused by diet or lifestyle — it is an autoimmune disease with genetic and environmental triggers.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) involves two problems: the body’s cells become resistant to insulin (insulin resistance), and the pancreas progressively loses its ability to make enough insulin to compensate. Type 2 diabetes is strongly associated with obesity, physical inactivity, genetics, and ageing.
Treatment Differences
Type 1 diabetes always requires insulin — there is no alternative. Patients typically use multiple daily injections or an insulin pump, guided by blood glucose monitoring or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).
Type 2 diabetes is initially managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications. Insulin is added when these are insufficient. GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors are newer classes of medications that offer metabolic and cardiovascular benefits beyond glucose control.
When to See a Specialist
Both types of diabetes benefit from specialist endocrinology input — particularly for insulin optimisation, management of complications, and evaluation of related autoimmune conditions. Dr. M.V. Rama Mohan runs a dedicated free Type 1 Diabetes clinic at Pogathota, Nellore.