Living with Module 02

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2. Module 02: Other types of diabetes

Table of Contents

2. Module 02: Other types of diabetes ...... 1 2.1 Type 3 Diabetes ...... 2 2.2 , MODY, LADA, and other types of diabetes ...... 3 2.3 Preparing for your first appointment ...... 5

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2.1 Type 3 Diabetes

Recently, researchers have found a connection between and Alzheimer’s, with many people now referring to Alzheimer’s as “type 3 diabetes” or “ diabetes.” While many people who contract type 2 diabetes will go on to live normal, well-managed lives, the presence of type 2 diabetes seems to increase and individual’s chances of experiencing some form of dementia as he or she ages. Even though researchers are still working to clarify the exact connection between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s, many trace the connection as follows:

 Diabetes causes an individual’s sugar level to increase.

 Increased blood sugar leads to inflammation in many parts of the body, including the brain. Additionally, the brain does not get the right amount of that it needs to function effectively.

 Chronic inflammations of this type in the brain have been proven to cause build up outside of nerve cells (amyloid plaque) and tau tangles, both of which are known indicators of Alzheimer’s. The lack of glucose flowing to the brain can also lead to other forms of brain dementia that may not technically be referred to as Alzheimer’s.

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Research is still being done to explore the link between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s further, but for those individuals with type 2 diabetes who are looking to avoid developing dementia, the tips are the same as we stated in the previous section: eat healthy, be active, monitor your blood pressure, monitor your cholesterol, and pay attention to your blood sugar levels. Additionally, though, there are some ways that you can continue to challenge your brain and keep it strong, including:

 Getting enough sleep

 Managing

 Learn new skills that challenge the brain

 Read challenging books

 Play puzzle or word games to strengthen your thinking skills

2.2 Gestational Diabetes, MODY, LADA, and other types of diabetes

In addition to types 1, 2, and 3 diabetes, there are a number of other types which are worth mentioning in this module. Let’s briefly discuss each of them, beginning with gestational diabetes, which we mentioned earlier in the module.

 Gestational diabetes: resistance is common in pregnant women, which can make it difficult for a woman to properly process the glucose in their blood. The majority of pregnant women’s bodies simply adjust for this resistance, but some women develop gestational diabetes, which can threaten their health and the health of their baby.

 MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young): MODY is solely caused by and often develops before an individual turns 25. MODY is caused by a single and is passed down from generation-to-generation just like any trait.

 LADA (Latent autoimmune Diabetes of Adults): This identification is very specific, but displays visible symptoms that are similar to individuals with type 2 diabetes. While causing the same symptoms as type 2, however, LADA is autoimmune like type 1, and therefore some experts refer to it as “type 1.5 diabetes.”

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 Double diabetes: When a person with also develops a resistance to insulin, like you would see in a person with type 2 diabetes.

 Steroid-induced diabetes: This is essentially type 2 diabetes, but it has been caused or accelerated by the use of steroids. People who use steroids for longer periods of time increase their risk of contracting diabetes.

 Brittle diabetes: This is a severe type of diabetes that is labeled “brittle” because the sharp swings in glucose levels can be difficult to manage.

 Secondary diabetes: Diabetes that has been brought upon by another medical condition, like pancreatic disorders.

 Diabetes insipidus: A type of diabetes that is characterized by increased volume running through a person’s kidneys.

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2.3 Preparing for your first appointment

Diabetes can seem overwhelming, so if you are concerned that you may be diabetic, it’s better to be over- prepared. Following these steps can help you walk out of your doctor’s office with all the information you need, and a plan for how to handle your diabetes (if your test turns up positive).

1. Clearly articulate your concern. Tell your doctor you are afraid you may have diabetes, so that he or she can prepare the proper tests, and give you the instructions you need to prepare for your appointment.

2. It may help to track your symptoms and have a list prepared prior to your appointment. You may feel nervous, tongue-tied, or simply forget important things in the moment. The more information you give your doctor, the better they’ll be able to help you.

3. Follow your doctor’s instructions. Oftentimes, as we discussed earlier, your doctor will require you to fast before you are tested for diabetes. Make sure to follow all of his or her instructions to facilitate an accurate diagnosis.

4. Be ready to take notes. If you test positive for some form of diabetes, you are going to have to make some lifestyle changes. Pay close attention to what your doctor tells you and take notes. The more knowledgeable you are about your specific diagnosis, the better you will be able to manage it.

5. Ask questions. If you have questions about your condition, make sure you ask your doctor. He or she will help you understand your condition and probably recommend other people you can talk to.

6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. See a dietician for lifestyle planning; see a podiatrist to make sure you are avoiding foot problems; see an ophthalmologist to make sure you are avoiding eye problems. Use the resources available to you to make sure you are fully prepared to manage your diabetes. Your doctor should bring these up at your appointment, but if they don’t – ask for some referrals and resources.

7. The internet can be a wonderful resource, but it can also be full of misconception, untrue facts, and fear- mongering. If you’re nervous about your appointment, or are feeling anxious about a possible diagnosis, tread carefully when you’re online. The worst thing you can do is think the world is ending and stress out to the point that you make yourself feel worse. Educate yourself if you feel you need that to prepare for your appointment, but don’t believe everything you read, and remember that even a positive diagnosis doesn’t mean your life is over.

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