Patient's question:
I am a patient with diabetes. My body is always swollen, and I often feel thirsty and want to eat something. I understand that my condition has been somewhat controlled, but my body is still swollen, and the symptoms have not improved at all. I am not sure at what stage of diabetes I am. Hello, what are the differences between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes patients?Doctor's answer:
Based on your age, it is likely type 2 diabetes. Currently, the edema suggests you may be in the stage of diabetic nephropathy. You can check a urinalysis and renal function tests to confirm. Generally, type 1 diabetes typically occurs at a very young age, around 10 years old, and is prone to recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis. Such patients need to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is more common in older adults who tend to overeat. It can be managed with oral hypoglycemic drugs or insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. If complications arise, insulin treatment becomes necessary.