Managing double diabetes

Some people with Type 1 diabetes may develop a condition in which their bodies cannot use insulin properly. This is commonly known as “double diabetes.” It is not an official medical diagnosis, but the term is often used when a person with Type 1 diabetes also develops insulin resistance.

This can make it harder to control blood sugar levels and may increase the risk of other health problems.

In Type 1 diabetes the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells do not respond properly to this hormone.

When blood sugar remains high for a long time it can damage the heart, eyes nerves and kidneys.

What are the early symptoms?

People with double diabetes may experience the following symptoms

Blood sugar levels that remain high

•Feeling tired or weak

•Feeling thirsty more often

•Urinating frequently

Difficulty keeping blood sugar under control

However these symptoms can also occur for other reasons. A doctor must carry out the necessary tests to identify the cause. Some symptoms may indicate a serious complication called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). These include vomiting stomach pain, fast or deep breathing confusion and unusual sleepiness.

Seek emergency medical care if these symptoms occur as diabetic ketoacidosis can be life threatening.

Who is at risk of insulin resistance?

Several factors may increase the risk of insulin resistance in people with Type 1 diabetes including

Excess fat around the waist

•Lack of physical activity

•An unbalanced diet

A family history of Type 2 diabetes

However, insulin resistance does not affect only people who are overweight. People with a normal or low body weight can also develop it.

Eating too much sugar is not the only cause. A combination of genetic, lifestyle and other health factors may contribute to insulin resistance.

How can double diabetes affect the body?

When blood sugar stays high for long periods it can increase the risk of several health problems.

Heart disease and stroke

Poor blood sugar control may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol within healthy ranges can help reduce these risks.

 Eye problems

High blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes. Over time this may affect vision and, in severe cases lead to vision loss. Regular eye examinations can help doctors identify problems before they become serious.

 Nerve damage

Long term high blood sugar can damage the nerves. This may cause pain, burning tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Checking the feet regularly is important because nerve damage can make it harder to notice injuries.

Kidney damage

High blood sugar can also harm the kidneys. Early kidney damage may not cause noticeable symptoms but tests may reveal protein in the urine or reduced kidney function. Severe kidney damage may eventually require dialysis or a kidney transplant.

How can you reduce the risk of complications?

People with Type 1 diabetes can take several steps to protect their health and lower the risk of complications.

Eat a balanced diet

Choose a variety of nutritious foods and follow a meal plan recommended by your healthcare professional.

Stay physically active

Regular exercise can support overall health and may improve insulin sensitivity.

Maintain a healthy weight

If needed seek professional advice about managing your weight safely.

Monitor blood sugar

Check your glucose levels as advised by your doctor.

Check blood pressure and cholesterol Keeping these under control can help protect your heart and kidneys.

Avoid smoking

Smoking can increase the risk of diabetes related complications.

Attend regular check ups

Have your eyes, feet and kidneys examined as recommended by your healthcare team.

Exercise can sometimes cause blood sugar levels to drop too low in people who use insulin. Follow your doctor’s advice on checking glucose levels and adjusting your diabetes management plan around physical activity.

Final thoughts

Double diabetes is a commonly used term for Type 1 diabetes combined with insulin resistance. This combination can make blood sugar control more difficult and may increase the risk of long term complications.

Insulin remains essential for people with Type 1 diabetes. If your blood sugar levels stay high or become difficult to manage contact your doctor. Never reduce or increase your insulin dose on your own as doing so can be dangerous.