When most people hear the word “diabetes,” they usually think of Type 1 or Type 2. These are indeed the most common, but they are not the only types of diabetes that exist. There are other, lesser-known forms that can affect people of all ages. Understanding these can help with early detection and better management.
In this article, we’ll explore some uncommon types of diabetes, their causes, symptoms, and how they are usually treated.
1. Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
LADA is often called “Type 1.5 diabetes” because it has features of both Type 1 and Type 2. It usually develops in adulthood and is sometimes mistaken for Type 2 due to the slower progression.
Causes: LADA is caused by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells, similar to Type 1.
Symptoms: Gradual increase in thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
Treatment: Initially, lifestyle changes and oral medication may help, but insulin is often required later.
2. Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)
MODY is a rare genetic form of diabetes that often runs in families. Unlike Type 1 or Type 2, it’s not linked to lifestyle factors.
Causes: Specific gene mutations that affect insulin production.
Symptoms: Can range from mild high blood sugar with no symptoms to more noticeable signs like increased thirst and urination.
Treatment: Depending on the gene affected, some people may only need diet control, while others require medication or insulin.
3. Gestational Diabetes
While not extremely rare, gestational diabetes is temporary and affects pregnant women who did not have diabetes before; it usually goes away after childbirth, but it increases the risk of developing Type 2 later in life.
Causes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy that affect insulin function.
Symptoms: Often no symptoms; detected through routine blood sugar tests during pregnancy.
Treatment: Diet control, exercise, and sometimes insulin.
4. Type 3c Diabetes
This form occurs when the pancreas is damaged due to illness or surgery, leading to problems with insulin production.
Causes: Conditions like chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or surgery on the pancreas.
Symptoms: Similar to other types of diabetes, including fatigue, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.
Treatment: Usually involves insulin and management of the underlying pancreatic condition.
5. Brittle Diabetes
Brittle diabetes is a rare and severe form of Type 1 diabetes where blood sugar levels swing dramatically from high to low, often without clear triggers.
Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but factors like hormonal changes, stress, and other health conditions may contribute.
Symptoms: Frequent and unpredictable blood sugar fluctuations, which can be dangerous.
Treatment: Careful monitoring, insulin adjustments, and sometimes the use of advanced monitoring devices.
6. Double Diabetes
Double diabetes happens when someone with Type 1 also develops insulin resistance, a hallmark of Type 2.
Causes: A combination of autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells and lifestyle-related insulin resistance.
Symptoms: A mix of signs from both types of diabetes, such as frequent urination, thirst, weight changes, and difficulty controlling blood sugar.
Treatment: Insulin therapy along with lifestyle changes to improve insulin sensitivity.
7. Neonatal Diabetes
This rare type develops in babies under six months old. It can be permanent or temporary.
Causes: Genetic mutations that affect insulin production.
Symptoms: High blood sugar, dehydration, poor weight gain.
Treatment: Depending on the type, insulin or oral medications may be used.
8. Steroid-Induced Diabetes
Some people develop diabetes after taking corticosteroid medications for conditions like asthma, arthritis, or autoimmune disorders.
Causes: Steroids interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
Symptoms: Similar to other types of diabetes, you will observe increased thirst, urination, and fatigue.
Treatment: Adjusting or stopping steroids, if possible, along with diet, exercise, and medication.
Why Knowing About Rare Types Matters?
Many people go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed when it comes to these uncommon types of diabetes. Since some forms progress slowly or have mild symptoms, they may be mistaken for more common conditions.
Being aware of these lesser-known forms helps in:
- Early detection: Getting the right tests done sooner.
- Better treatment: Using the right medication or insulin plan.
- Family awareness: Especially for genetic forms like MODY or neonatal diabetes.
Managing Any Type of Diabetes
Regardless of the type, managing blood sugar levels is key. This usually involves:
- Healthy diet: Balanced meals that avoid excessive sugar and refined carbs.
- Regular exercise: Helps improve insulin sensitivity.
- Medication or insulin: As prescribed by a doctor.
- Monitoring blood sugar: To track patterns and make timely adjustments.
Conclusion
While Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the most widely known, there are many other types of diabetes that deserve attention. Rare forms like LADA, MODY, and Type 3c may affect fewer people, but their impact on health can be just as serious. If you or someone in your family has unusual symptoms or a strong family history of diabetes, it’s worth discussing these possibilities with a doctor. Early diagnosis can make a big difference in managing the condition effectively and improving quality of life.