What is Type One and Type Two diabetes?

Type One diabetes was previously called juvenile diabetes because it often starts when the person is very young. It occurs when the pancreas loses its ability to make the hormone insulin. The person's own immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Once those cells are destroyed, they won't ever make insulin again. This type of diabetes can't be prevented, and there is no real way to predict who will get it.

Some of the symptoms of Type One diabetes include:

• frequent urination;

• unusual thirst;

• extreme hunger;

• unusual weight loss;

• extreme fatigue and irritability.

Type Two diabetes, previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes, results from the body's inability to respond to insulin normally. Most people with Type Two diabetes can still produce insulin, but not enough to meet their body's needs. It is the most common form of diabetes. In the United States it is more common amongst African Americans, Latinos, and Asian Americans, as well as older people.

Lifestyle conditions such as low levels of exercise, smoking and a diet laden with sugary foods, can play a factor in developing Type Two diabetes. This type of diabetes can often be well controlled with proper diet and exercise.

Symptoms of Type Two diabetes:

• Any of the Type One symptoms

• Frequent infections

• Blurred vision

• Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal

• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet

• Recurring skin, gum, or bladder infections