Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational. All three involve elevated blood sugar levels related to insulin deficiencies but each form has a different cause and treatment. 

• Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body’s attack on the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. The trigger for these attacks is unknown. The result is that the body can’t manufacture the insulin required to control blood sugar levels. This form is relatively rare, affecting only about five to ten percent of all patients with diabetes. Type 1 diabetes patients must inject insulin on a recurring basis. 
• Type 2 Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is far more common. It occurs when the body is making too little insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels or isn’t using the insulin it has in an effective way. Type 2 diabetes tends to come on later in life. It can be controlled by eating healthy, increasing your physical activity, other behavioral modifications, and in some cases, oral medicines or insulin injections are required.
• Gestational Diabetes. Gestational diabetes is different from types 1 and 2 because it is limited to pregnant women who have otherwise been diabetes free. It usually reverses after pregnancy. Gestational diabetes may be controlled with diet, exercise, and checks on weight gain. Medicines are sometimes required to regulate glucose levels. Women with gestational diabetes may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.

Why Baptist Health for My Diabetes Care?

Baptist Health is the premier local facility for medical treatment of diabetes. We offer the widest range of diabetes care services in the area, on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. From prevention and management to hospitalization and surgery, we cover every aspect of treatment for people with diabetes.