The first type is known as an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body and kills the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes generally develops in childhood.
The second type is the most common, in which the body produces little insulin, which may not perform its role in absorbing glucose from the body’s cells. This condition generally develops with age and is related to lifestyle.
It is important to know how diabetes can appear on the body, as individuals often develop this chronic condition without showing early symptoms.
Studies have shown that skin problems are often the first visible signs of diabetes.
Pharmacist Bruce Green said that the skin of a diabetic may look similar to the skin of an elderly person. He explained that the process of changing the skin is a process called glycation, which is a non-enzymatic process responsible for many large and small vascular complications in diabetes, and has a role in some diseases of aging.
He pointed out that skin problems are more common among people with diabetes due to poor blood circulation and loss of sensitivity in the nerves.
Green revealed six major warning signs appearing on the skin that you should be aware of:
1. Yellow or brown spots or bumps
2. A dark area of skin that feels velvety, especially around the neck and armpits
3. Thick, hard skin patches, especially on the fingers and toes
4. Sudden appearance of pimples
5. Skin spots – small, barely noticeable indentations on the skin
6. Dry and itchy skin, especially on the arms, legs, elbows and feet
However, these are not the only symptoms you should be aware of, as the main symptoms of diabetes include feeling very thirsty, or urinating more than usual, especially at night.
Extreme fatigue throughout the day, unintended weight loss, itching around the genitals, frequent bouts of thrush, and vision changes are the main warning symptoms of the disease.
Source: The Sun
#skin #signs #diabetes
What are the key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in terms of their onset and underlying mechanisms?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Endocrinologist, on Diabetes Types**
**Editor:** Dr. Thompson, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start by clarifying the first type of diabetes you mentioned. Can you explain how this autoimmune condition works?
**Dr. Thompson:** Absolutely. The first type, commonly referred to as Type 1 diabetes, is indeed an autoimmune condition. In this type, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This often leads to a total deficiency in insulin. While Type 1 typically develops in childhood and adolescence, it can also occur in adults.
**Editor:** That’s interesting, and how does this differ from the second type of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson:** The second type, often known as Type 2 diabetes, is much more common. In Type 2, the body still produces some insulin, but it’s either insufficient or the insulin is ineffective due to insulin resistance. Over time, this type can develop as a result of lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, and age. It usually arises in adults, although we’re seeing it more frequently in younger populations due to rising obesity rates.
**Editor:** There’s also a condition called Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA). Can you elaborate on what distinguishes it from both Type 1 and Type 2?
**Dr. Thompson:** Great question! LADA is often considered a sort of “middle ground” between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It occurs in adults typically over the age of 30 and involves an autoimmune process like Type 1, where the body attacks the pancreas but progresses more slowly. Many people with LADA initially may be diagnosed with Type 2 since they might still produce some insulin yet eventually require insulin therapy as their pancreatic function declines over time [[1](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/expert-answers/lada-diabetes/faq-20057880)].
**Editor:** It sounds like understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective treatment. What symptoms might indicate that someone is developing these types of diabetes?
**Dr. Thompson:** Symptoms can overlap somewhat. For Type 1, rapid onset symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Type 2 symptoms often develop gradually and can include similar signs, but may also involve increased hunger, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. LADA might not be as obvious initially but can show similar early signs befitting both autoimmune and insulin deficiency characteristics.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for these insights. It’s clear that understanding the nuances between these diabetes types can greatly influence both diagnosis and treatment strategies.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. It’s important to raise awareness about these types, as early detection and management can significantly improve patient outcomes.
