Diabetes UK estimates that almost six million people in the UK are living with diabetes, an all-time high. Their data for 2024-25 shows more than 4.7 million people have a diagnosis, while nearly 1.3 million may have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. These figures represent an increase of 155,803 from 2023-24. Understanding the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is crucial for early detection and management.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
According to the NHS, type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. This leads to dangerously high glucose levels. Without treatment, it can cause diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication. Type 1 typically begins in children and young adults, but can occur at any age. Symptoms often develop quickly, over days or weeks. Risk factors include other autoimmune conditions or a family history of type 1 diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes occurs when insulin does not work properly or the body does not produce enough. It affects adults and sometimes children. Unlike type 1, it can often be managed with diet, exercise, and medication. High blood sugar can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, or nerve problems. The NHS notes that losing weight and improving diet may prevent or even reverse type 2 diabetes. Symptoms develop more slowly and are more common in older people, though ethnic background, weight, activity level, and family history increase risk in children.
Common Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
- Peeing more than usual, especially at night
- Feeling very thirsty and drinking more than usual
- Feeling very tired
- Losing weight without trying or looking thinner
Other symptoms include blurred vision, breath that smells sweet or fruity, slow-healing cuts, and frequent infections.
Common Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
- Feeling very tired
- Peeing more than usual
- Feeling thirsty all the time
- Losing weight without trying
Additional symptoms include blurred vision, slow-healing cuts, and itching around the penis or vagina or recurrent thrush. These symptoms are the same for both adults and children.
