Type 1 and type 2 diabetes share many of the same symptoms and complications, which can be categorized as short- and long-term complications.
Short-term problems depend on whether there is too much or too little blood sugar in the body, based on how well you are managing your blood glucose levels. Short-term complications include blurred vision, feeling tired, and frequent
need to urinate.
Long-term problems result from a person having had diabetes for a long time, and more serious damage is taking a toll on your body. Long-term complications include hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, retinopathy (damage
to the eyes), and kidney failure.
There are also some characteristics that set apart type 1 and type 2 diabetes. For example, people with type 1 diabetes need to be alert of emergency symptoms, such as fruity-smelling breath, loss of coordination, slurred
speech, or unconsciousness. People with type 2 diabetes may have no symptoms for years or decades, since the symptoms develop as the disease progresses.
If you have been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it is important for you to talk to your doctor and find out how to manage your diabetes. Monitoring your blood glucose levels will become an important part of your daily routine, as well as other lifestyle changes you will need to make.