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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between IDDM and NIDDM?

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IDDM (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) and NIDDM (Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) are two different types of diabetes, also known as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively. The main difference between IDDM and NIDDM is the cause of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) in each type:

  • IDDM: Hyperglycemia arises from insufficient production of insulin from pancreatic cells due to autoimmunity. In this type of diabetes, the body either produces insulin in very small amounts or not at all. It is also known as juvenile-onset diabetes and is more common in children and young adults.
  • NIDDM: Hyperglycemia arises from the loss of normal tissue sensitivity to insulin, also known as insulin resistance. In this type of diabetes, the body produces insulin, but the cells don't respond to it as they should. It is also known as adult-onset diabetes and is more common in adults.

Both IDDM and NIDDM may cause similar symptoms, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, and unintentional weight loss. They can also lead to complications like heart-related diseases, neuropathy, kidney diseases, and eye diseases. Diagnosis for both conditions is typically done through blood tests, and treatment may involve lifestyle changes and specific medications.

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  • What is the Difference Between IDDM and NIDDM?
  • Comparative Table: IDDM vs NIDDM

    • Comparative Table: IDDM vs NIDDM

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between IDDM (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) and NIDDM (Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus):

    IDDM NIDDM
    Also known as Type 1 diabetes Also known as Type 2 diabetes
    Insufficient production of insulin from pancreatic cells Loss of normal tissue sensitivity to insulin (insulin resistance)
    Symptoms appear suddenly Symptoms appear slowly
    May either produce insulin in small amounts or may not produce insulin at all The body produces insulin, but the cells don't respond to insulin the way they should
    Common in children and young adults Common in adults, usually over 40 years old and often overweight
    Frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, unintentional weight loss Similar symptoms, but onset is slower
    Can result in ketoacidosis Cannot result in ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar non-ketoacidosis
    Usually treatable with insulin injections or insulin pump Treatable with a carefully planned diet, exercise program, oral medication, or insulin when necessary

    Both IDDM and NIDDM share some common symptoms, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, and unintentional weight loss. They can also cause complications like heart-related diseases, neuropathy, kidney diseases, and eye diseases. Diagnosis and treatment for both conditions are mainly through lifestyle changes and specific medications.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.