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Understanding the Different Types of Diabetes

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Diabetes is the most common disorders of the endocrine system, which is the part of our bodies that controls hormone levels. In fact, it impacts more than 30 million people in the United States

“We are witnessing a continued increase in the prevalence of diabetes thanks to a rise in unhealthy diets and lifestyles,” SouthCoast Health Primary Care Physician Dr. Misal Patel stated. “That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of diabetes and accompanying symptoms. There are steps that can be taken to decrease the risk of progression to diabetes.” 

But did you know that there are multiple types of diabetes, all with unique symptoms and management plans? If you or someone you love have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, keep reading below to learn more about the different types of diabetes. 

What Are the Different Types of Diabetes? 

The four main types of diabetes are the following: 

  • Pre-diabetes: With the numbers estimated to be around 88 million adults per the CDC, more people in the United States have pre-diabetes.  Pre-diabetes is best described as having higher than normal blood sugar, but it’s not high enough to be officially classified as diabetes. It does, however, place you at an increased risk for progression to diabetes.

  • Type 1: The people that have Type 1 diabetes are unable to produce insulin on their own, and they require insulin injections to be able to control their blood sugar. This is because the cells that create insulin in their bodies are destroyed by their immune system. 

  • Type 2: The difference between this type and Type 1 is that insulin is still produced in the body naturally. However, for those with Type 2 their bodies are not able to recognize the insulin or they aren’t producing enough. 

  • Gestational: Due to hormonal changes that occur throughout a pregnancy, pregnant women may develop this form of diabetes. This condition occurs in about six to nine percent of pregnancies. 

What Are the Different Symptoms for the Types of Diabetes? 

Pre-diabetes

Those with pre-diabetes usually have no symptoms. 

Type 1 Diabetes

  • Blurred vision 

  • Dry mouth 

  • Feeling tired 

  • Hunger

  • Increased need to urinate 

  • Thirst

  • Weight loss 

Type 2 Diabetes

  • Above symptoms 

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Itchiness

  • Numbness 

  • Slow-healing wounds 

  • Tingling 

  • Weight gain 

  • Yeast infections 

Gestational Diabetes

  • Blurred vision 

  • Hunger

  • Increased need to urinate

  • Thirst

The above is a simple guide between the different types of diabetes. If you would like to learn more about how to manage or treat diabetes, our experts are here to help. Click here to schedule an appointment with us or give us a call at 912.691.3600.


Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.

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