Re: Confused *Beth

[Guest guest]

There are exceptions to everything including the diff between Type I

and Type II diabetes but here is some info I got from one of the

diabetes self management classes I just attended that MIGHT help.

Type I - The pancreas of a person with type I (formerly known as

juvenile diabetes) makes little or no insulin. They must therefore

take insulin to live. Approx 10% of the people with diabetes have

type I. It is diagnosed most often in children and young adults and

genetics may play a role in its developement.

Type II - (once called adult-onset diabetes) the pancreas still makes

some insulin, but cannot use it effectively. The body may not make

enough insulin to control blood sugar. Approx 90% of people with

diabetes have type II. The cause is unknown, but treatment includes

lifestyle changes such as healthier eating habits, weight loss and

exercise. Some people may also need pills and/or insulin to control

their blood sugar. (or your body produces so much insulin and doesnt

use it correctly and your cells become resistant to the insulin)

THe body uses glucose, a type of sugar, as its fuel. This glucose

comes from the food you eat. The pancreas releases insulin into the

bloodstream. Insulin helps move the glucose into the cells of organs

such as the brain, nerves and muscles for energy.

People with diabetes either can't use or make enough insulin to move

the glucose from the blood into the cells. So when you have

diabetes, sugar builds up in the blood instead of going to the

cells. Since cells are getting enough fuel, you may feel very

thirsty or tired.

(Info from brochure distributed by the American Diabetes Association)

When all else fails ask your physician!