There are several types of diabetes, each with distinct characteristics and causes.
Here are some of the main types:
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Diabetes |
- *Common Types:*
- *Type 1 Diabetes*: An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually develops in children and young adults.
- *Type 2 Diabetes*: A condition where the body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't respond to insulin properly. It's the most common type, mainly affecting adults, but can also occur in children.
- *Gestational Diabetes*: Develops during pregnancy due to high blood sugar levels. It usually goes away after pregnancy, but increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
- *Less Common Types:*
- *Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)*: A slow-developing form of Type 1 diabetes that affects adults.
- *Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)*: A rare genetic form of diabetes that usually develops before age 25.
- *Type 3c Diabetes*: Develops when the pancreas is damaged due to another condition, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or cystic fibrosis.
- *Steroid-Induced Diabetes*: Triggered by long-term corticosteroid use.
- *Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes*: Common in people with cystic fibrosis.
- *Neonatal Diabetes*: A rare form of diabetes diagnosed in infants under six months old.
- *Wolfram Syndrome*: A rare genetic disorder that causes diabetes and other health issues.
- *Alstr├╢m Syndrome*: A rare genetic disorder that causes Type 2 diabetes in youth.
- *Brittle Diabetes*: A rare form of Type 1 diabetes characterized by frequent and extreme swings in blood sugar levels.
- *Malnutrition-Related Diabetes (Type 5 Diabetes)*: A type of diabetes related to chronic undernutrition, especially during childhood or adolescence ¹ ².
It's essential to note that each type of diabetes has different causes, symptoms, and treatment options. If you're concerned about diabetes, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and diagnosis.
Diabetes measurement typically involves monitoring blood glucose levels using various methods, including:
1. *Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test*: Measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast.
2. *Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS) Test*: Measures blood glucose levels after a meal.
3. *Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test*: Measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.
4. *Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)*: Uses a sensor to track blood glucose levels throughout the day.
5. *Glucometer*: A portable device that measures blood glucose levels using a small drop of blood.
These measurements help diagnose and manage diabetes, ensuring effective treatment and preventing complications.
Here are the general ranges for diabetes measurements:
- *Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS):*
- Normal: 70-99 mg/dL (3.9-5.5 mmol/L)
- Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL (5.6-6.9 mmol/L)
- Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher (7.0 mmol/L or higher)
- *Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS):*
- Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
- Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL (7.8-11.0 mmol/L)
- Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher (11.1 mmol/L or higher)
- *Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):*
- Normal: Less than 5.7% (39 mmol/mol)
- Prediabetes: 5.7-6.4% (39-46 mmol/mol)
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher (48 mmol/mol or higher)
- *Target ranges for people with diabetes:*
- FBS: 70-130 mg/dL (3.9-7.2 mmol/L)
- PPBS: Less than 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L)
- HbA1c: Less than 7% (53 mmol/mol) for many adults, though targets may vary based on individual factors.
These ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, healthcare provider, or individual circumstances.
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