Type 5 Diabetes: On one hand, diabetes is one of the most commonly chronic conditions worldwide. On the other hand, most people would know about diabetes in two forms only, Type 1 or Type 2. But even these lesser-known types of diabetes have their recognition among researchers and the medics. One of them is seriously rare, called Type 5 Diabetes; now it is becoming better known in the healthcare community.
In general, people will consider Type 5 diabetes as double diabetes or a condition that pops up when the characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 overlap during the advanced stages of diabetes. While some experts consider it as a progression of already existing diabetes, there are also those who see it as a hybrid form. This rare condition makes management more complicated than either Type 1 or Type 2 alone.
Such a case may arise with a person having developed Type 1 Diabetes at the earlier stages of life only to later develop insulin resistance, the hallmark of Type 2. Cases are present where a Type 2 patient, over time, will lose the ability to produce insulin, falling into the Type 1 category from this point onwards. Genetic predispositions, lifestyle, and negative sugar outcomes over the years are also contributory factors.
Among others:
Thirst and urination, frequent
Weight changes, unexplained
Fatigue extreme
Wounds slow to heal
High blood sugar despite insulin treatment
The above symptoms collectively point to the metabolic imbalance developing between production and use of insulin in the body.
Type 5 diabetes is heightened in severity because it predisposes individuals to complications such as heart disease, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Patients find themselves challenged to cope with the dual aspects of insulin deficiency and resistance, such that management usually entails a combination of oral hypoglycemic agents and insulin therapy, lifestyle modification, and close observation.
Also Read: Maple Syrup Vs Honey: Which Is Better Sweetener for Diabetes
Type 5 Diabetes may be rare but it brings about the complexity that a chronic disease goes through in terms of management. The keys to controlling this condition and preventing severe complications such as amputations are awareness, early detection, and appropriate medical treatment. For anyone at risk, regular check-ups and a balanced lifestyle remain the strongest defenses.
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