Difference between type 1 and 2 diabetes: All you need to know

Overview

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that impacts how your body manages blood sugar (glucose). When this balance is disrupted, glucose levels can rise too high, which, over time, can cause significant health problems. In Australia, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are prevalent, but they differ considerably in causes, treatment, and management. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), in 2022, 5.3 % of Australians (around 1.3 million people) had diabetes.¹ So, let’s explore what exactly sets Type 1 apart from Type 2 diabetes?

What is Type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin, the hormone that helps glucose move from the bloodstream into cells for energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise, causing serious health risks. Type 1 diabetes usually begins in childhood or early adulthood, though it can occur at any age. People with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections to stay healthy.

Key characteristics of Type 1 diabetes:

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

What is Type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is far more common, especially in Australia. It occurs when the body develops insulin resistance, meaning that while insulin is available, the body’s cells are not able to utilise it effectively or when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels normal. The condition is closely linked to lifestyle factors, including weight, diet, physical activity, other health conditions, and family history. Type 2 diabetes usually tends to develop gradually, often in adults over 40, though it’s now being seen more often in younger people. Many people manage Type 2 diabetes with healthy lifestyle changes and oral medications, though some may eventually require insulin therapy. Key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

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
Treatment	Insulin therapy + monitoring	Lifestyle + diet + oral medications (and maybe insulin)

Symptoms

Whether Type 1 or Type 2, many symptoms overlap. These include:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Fatigue or feeling unusually tired

• Blurred vision

• Slow-healing wounds

• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Note: In Type 1 diabetes, symptoms appear suddenly. In Type 2 diabetes, they develop gradually.

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 treatment improve outcomes.

Treatment and management

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 if untreated

If either type of diabetes isn’t managed well, it can increase the risk of developing complications such as:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Vision problems (retinopathy)
• Kidney disease (nephropathy)
• Foot ulcers and infections (Diabetic Foot)

Early and prompt management helps reduce these risks significantly.

Living well with diabetes

Here are a few practical tips for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and living well:

• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on low glycaemic index (GI) foods, fibre-rich foods, and portion control.
• Engage in regular physical activity: Regular exercise, like walking, swimming, or cycling, helps improve insulin sensitivity.
• 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.
• Staying consistent with medications or insulin schedules
• Work with a diabetes educator or dietitian to create a tailored management plan.

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 offers a convenient way in Australia for early screening, medication review, or professional medical advice. How Hola Health can help If you’re in Australia and think you might have diabetes or need ongoing care for Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, the online GP service Hola Health offers easy and reliable support from home.  With Hola Health, you can:

• Get online doctor consultations for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes management

• Get repeat prescriptions for diabetes medications or insulin

• Get referrals to endocrinologists or dietitians

• Obtain medical certificates for work or study if diabetes affects daily activity

• Get quick, secure, and Medicare-supported telehealth access.

Conclusion In summary, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes involve problems with blood sugar control. However, they differ in cause, onset, and treatment. 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 reversible?

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.