Diabetes Made Clear: What the Different Types Mean and When to Get Checked
Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how the body regulates blood glucose. It is increasingly common in the UK, yet many people remain unsure about the different types of diabetes and symptoms that should prompt a medical review. This guide outlines the key forms of diabetes, how they develop, and what support is available if you’re concerned about changes in your symptoms or blood sugar control. If you want a more detailed overview of the early warning signs and risk factors, you may also find our Diabetes Aware blog helpful:
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when the body either cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is the hormone responsible for moving glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, where it is used for energy. Without enough insulin action, glucose builds up in the blood — leading to both short-term symptoms and long-term health risks.
For a detailed explanation, visit the NHS overview of diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
Cause: Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, resulting in little or no insulin production.
Onset: Often in childhood or adolescence, but can occur at any age.
ManageCause: Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, resulting in little or no insulin production.
Onset: Often in childhood or adolescence, but can occur at any age.
Management: Lifelong insulin therapy, carbohydrate awareness, and regular blood glucose monitoring.
Symptoms:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Rapid onset of symptoms
More detailed guidance is available via Diabetes UK
Type 2 Diabetes
Cause: Insulin resistance combined with gradual decline in insulin production.
Onset: Usually in adulthood but increasingly seen in younger individuals.
Risk factors:
- Family history
- Central adiposity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Age >40
- South Asian, Black African or Caribbean heritage
- PCOS
- Previous gestational diabetes
Management includes:
- Lifestyle measures (dietary modification, increased activity, weight optimisation)
- Oral medications
- GLP-1 agonists
- Insulin where necessary
You can read more about GLP-1 treatments and weight management on our website
NICE recommendations on Type 2 diabetes can be found here
Symptoms often develop slowly and may be subtle.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones increase insulin resistance.
NHS guidance on gestational diabetes
Managing this well helps reduce long-term risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in later life.
Women with a history of gestational diabetes benefit from regular postnatal glucose checks.
LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)
A slow-onset form of autoimmune diabetes often mistaken for Type 2.
Signs include:
- Not overweight
- Other autoimmune conditions
- Initial response to oral medication but eventual need for insulin
More information is available via Diabetes UK
Diagnosing LADA early helps avoid prolonged periods of poor glucose control.
MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young)
A rare genetic form of diabetes appearing before age 25.
Strong family history is typical.
Genetic confirmation may be needed.NHS information on MODY can be found here
Genetic testing is often required for accurate diagnosis.
Pre-Diabetes
Blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. Early identification and lifestyle changes significantly reduce progression.
For practical blood sugar advice and early risk spotting, you can also read our internal blog
Risk can be significantly reduced through:
- Weight optimisation
- Improving diet quality
- Increasing physical activity
Common Symptoms Across All Types
- Thirst
- Passing urine more often
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent infections (thrush, skin infections, UTIs)
- Slow wound healing
- Unexplained weight change
If you experience these symptoms, early assessment is important.
Complications of Poorly Controlled Diabetes
Long-term high blood sugar can affect:
- Cardiovascular system
- Kidneys
- Eyes (retinopathy)
- Nerves (neuropathy)
- Wound healing
- Immune system
Because people with chronic illnesses, including diabetes, are at higher risk of complications from seasonal infections, you may find our flu vaccine blog helpful. Knowing more about the different types of diabetes and symptoms helps you stay alert to early changes and seek timely support.
Good control significantly lowers the risk of complications.
How We Can Help at Doghurst Clinic
At Doghurst Clinic, we offer comprehensive diabetes assessment and support, including:
✓ Diagnostic blood testing (HbA1c, fasting glucose, lipids, kidney function)
✓ Medication reviews
✓ GLP-1 therapy where appropriate
✓ Cardiovascular risk assessment
✓ Structured weight-management guidance
✓ Monitoring for complications
✓ Personalised care from Dr Hannah Murphy, an experienced GP with extensive expertise in women’s health, endocrinology-focused primary care, dermatology and lifestyle medicine.
Learn more about Dr Hannah’s professional background here:
When to Book a Review
You should seek medical advice if:
- You have symptoms suggestive of diabetes
- You have risk factors such as family history or previous gestational diabetes
- Your HbA1c is rising
- You feel unwell or are losing weight unexpectedly
- You want to explore evidence-based weight-management options
- You need support managing your existing diagnosis