What does double diabetes means?
My mother has “double diabetes.” How is that possible and am I at risk of the same condition?
answer:
It means your mother has both Type 1 and 2 diabetes. It’s a problem that is becoming more common among diabetics. With Type 1, the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps cells convert sugar into energy. With Type 2, the pancreas produces insulin, but the body is unable to use it properly. How did your mother get both? If she was originally a Type 1 diabetic, she may have developed Type 2 when she became very overweight. If she started with Type 2 and doesn’t keep the disease in check, her pancreas may give out, leading to Type 1. If you have a first-degree relative with diabetes, your risk of getting it doubles. So, you should mention your mother’s condition to your doctor the next time you’re there. Regular testing for the disease doesn’t usually start until age 45, but you may need to be screened sooner. Diabetes is a preventable disease, so check with your doctor and make the right lifestyle changes.
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Mar 16th 2008 at 4:36 pm
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