Diabetes – Types, Causes, Symptoms And Management

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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Overview

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels properly. This can be caused by issues with insulin production, the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, or both. Diabetes can have dire consequences on various organs and systems within the body. It is important to identify the symptoms early to assist in the management of symptoms and support long-term health. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial for managing diabetes and preventing complications. Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia with more than 300 new diabetes cases being diagnosed every day. Almost 1.9 million Australians live with known diabetes and two million Australians are at risk of developing diabetes soon according to the Diabetes Australia and it is the seventh most common cause of death by disease in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), in 2022, 5.3 % of Australians (around 1.3 million people) had diabetes.

Types of Diabetes

It is important to understand which type of diabetes a person is attacked with to reduce the damage done due to diabetes on other organs and its management.

• Type 1 Diabetes: This type of diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas and stops the natural production of insulin. It typically requires insulin therapy for management, usually through injections or an insulin pump for the rest of their lives.
• Type 2 Diabetes: It is a more common type of Diabetes, which is linked to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. Genetics, lifestyle factors, and obesity contribute to its development. This can occur in any age group. Lifestyle changes, oral medications, and in some cases, insulin therapy is required for the management of Type 2 diabetes.
• Gestational Diabetes: It develops during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This can lead to problems with the pregnancy such as preterm birth, polyhydramnios (excessive build-up of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby), large birth weight (resulting in increased risk of birth complications such as shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder gets stuck, or the need for a caesarean delivery.

Key characteristics of Type 1 diabetes

• Sudden onset of symptoms
• It cannot be prevented
• Managed with insulin, blood glucose monitoring, and lifestyle balance

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Key Differences

Feature	Type 1 Diabetes	Type 2 Diabetes
Cause	Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells	Insulin resistance or reduced insulin production
Onset	Sudden, often in children/young adults	Gradual, common in adults (but younger onset possible)
Insulin use	Always required	Sometimes required (depends on stage)
Prevention	Not preventable	Often preventable through lifestyle changes
Risk factors	Family history, other autoimmune conditions	Overweight, inactivity, poor diet, family history
Management	Insulin therapy + monitoring	Lifestyle + diet + oral medications (and maybe insulin)

What causes Diabetes?

There are several factors that might cause diabetes influenced by genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. The main causes include but are not limited to:

1. Genetics: A family history of diabetes can increase the risk.
2. Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, and obesity contribute to Type 2 diabetes.
3. Age and Sex: The risk of diabetes increases with age. Males in general are more at risk of diabetes.
4. Viral infections: Certain viral infections are believed to sometimes trigger Type 1 Diabetes as a result of causing an autoimmune response where the body’s own immune system fights against and destroys the pancreatic insulin-producing beta cells.
5. Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups are more prone to diabetes.
6. Gestational Factors: Women who experienced gestational diabetes are at a higher risk.

What are the symptoms of Diabetes?

Symptoms may vary between Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow wound healing
• Frequent Infections
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

It’s important to note that these symptoms may not always be obvious, and some people with diabetes may not experience all of them, so it is important to consult your doctor or medical practitioner if you are concerned. Note: In Type 1 diabetes, symptoms appear suddenly. In Type 2 diabetes, they develop gradually. If you experience severe, worsening, or life-threatening symptoms, call 000 immediately or attend your nearest Emergency Department (ED). Diagnosis In Australia, diagnosis of diabetes includes one or more of the following tests:

• Blood glucose tests (fasting or random)
• HbA1c test (which indicates average blood glucose over the past 2-3 months)
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

It’s essential to get early testing if you or your GP suspect diabetes. Early diagnosis and clinical support improve outcomes.

Management and Support Strategies by Type

Type 1 diabetes:

• Insulin therapy
• Regular blood sugar monitoring
• Balanced diet and regular physical activity

Type 2 diabetes:

• Lifestyle modifications (healthy eating, exercise, weight management)
• Oral medications or injections
• If needed, insulin therapy

In both cases, support from diabetes educators and dietitians in Australia is extremely beneficial for managing the condition effectively.

Complications of Untreated or Poorly Managed Diabetes

When untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to severe complications, including:

• Kidney damage (nephropathy)
• Nerve damage causing pain or numbness (neuropathy)
• Eye problems and vision loss (retinopathy)
• Foot problems, including infections and amputations
• High Blood Pressure
• Skin Complications
• Low immunity
• Heart disease and stroke

Early and prompt management helps reduce these risks significantly.

Management of Diabetes

Effective management of diabetes is highly individualised and involves collaboration with a healthcare team to tailor lifestyle modifications and medication plans to each person’s needs. Here are key strategies for managing diabetes:

Working with your Doctor

Consulting your General Practitioner promptly if you think you might have diabetes is crucial. They will diagnose the type of diabetes and create a personalised management plan and adjust it over time and may refer you to a diabetes specialist if required. If you are experiencing worrying symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision, confusion or blood sugar readings that are persistently above normal, you should seek same day medical attention for an urgent diabetes assessment as delays may risk missing critical management time windows in an emergency.

Healthy Eating and Balanced Diet

Focus on a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Be mindful of portion sizes to help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, to help control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.
• Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your medication plan, including insulin or oral medications, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Regular Follow-ups: Follow up with your General Practitioner in a timely manner to monitor the effectiveness of medications and adjust as needed.
• Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Keep track of blood sugar levels as recommended by your healthcare provider using a blood glucose monitor.

Stress Management

Reducing stress, consistent and adequate sleep is also necessary to manage diabetes.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of proper diet and regular physical activity.
• Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can contribute to cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.

Additional Tips for Living Well with Diabetes

• Focus on low glycaemic index (GI) foods, fibre-rich foods, and portion control.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Both can negatively impact diabetes.
• Have regular GP check-ups and pathology tests such as HbA1c, kidney function, lipids, eyes, and feet.
• Work with a diabetes educator or dietitian to create a tailored management plan.

Prevention and effective management of diabetes through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular medical check-ups, blood sugar monitoring and awareness of risk factors are crucial in reducing the risk and severity of these complications. Early detection and intervention play a significant role in minimising the impact of diabetes on overall health.

When to See a Doctor

Seek prompt medical advice if:

• You experience sudden weight changes, fatigue, frequent urination, or excessive thirst.
• Your blood sugar readings are consistently high or low.
• You’re generally feeling unwell and suspect diabetes, or if you already have it, but your blood sugar management isn’t on track.

Telehealth is a convenient option for appropriate healthcare needs, such as early screening or professional medical advice. However, some health concerns may require an in-person assessment, physical examination, or testing. Telehealth is not a replacement for face-to-face emergency care.

How Hola Health Can Help

Telehealth is a convenient option for appropriate healthcare needs and can effectively complement in-person healthcare. Hola Health is an Australian telehealth platform that connects you with AHPRA-registered doctors and medical practitioners in Australia. Accessing a consultation via telehealth allows you to discuss symptoms or health concerns from your home. Depending on your clinical needs and following a clinical assessment, a Hola Health clinician may be able to help with:

• Clinical Consultations: Access healthcare assessments and medical advice via telehealth within a few minutes.
• Prescription: Consultations for new or repeat prescriptions (including diabetes management medications), if clinically appropriate.
• Online Doctors Certificate: Provision of certificates for work or personal leave, if clinically appropriate.
• Referrals: Referral to specialist or for diagnostic imaging, if clinically appropriate.
• Pathology Requests: Request forms for blood tests (such as HbA1c or kidney function), based on the practitioner’s professional judgement.

Telehealth may not be suitable for every condition. Some patients may require an in-person assessment, physical examination, testing, or emergency care. This is particularly important for conditions like diabetes that may require physical checks of the feet, eyes, or blood pressure. Hola Health clinicians will always recommend an in-person consultation or specialist referral if it is in your best clinical interest.

Conclusion

In summary, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes involve problems with blood sugar control. However, they differ in cause, onset, and management. Early detection and management are key to living well. If you notice symptoms or risks, book a check-up (online or in person) and take charge of your health.

FAQs

Can adults develop Type 1 diabetes?

Yes, while Type 1 is more commonly diagnosed in children or young adults, it can develop at any age.

Can Type 2 diabetes turn into Type 1?

No, they are quite different in their development. However, people with Type 2 diabetes may eventually need insulin to manage their condition.

Is Type 2 diabetes remission?

In some cases, early-stage Type 2 diabetes can be reversed or put into remission with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. However, results may vary between individuals and should be undertaken in consultation with healthcare professionals.

How do I manage diabetes through diet and exercise?

Eat a balanced diet and include plenty of vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Keep a check on your portions and avoid sugary drinks. Exercise regularly and work with a dietitian for a personalised plan.

Can I get diabetes medication online in Australia?

Yes, through registered telehealth services (like Hola Health), you can get online GP consultations and receive prescriptions for diabetes medications, if clinically appropriate following a clinical assessment by a medical practitioner.