Some people with type 1 diabetes may develop a condition over time in which their body becomes less effective at using insulin. This is commonly referred to as “double diabetes.”
The term is not an official medical diagnosis. It is generally used to describe a situation in which a person with type 1 diabetes also develops insulin resistance, making it more difficult to control blood sugar levels.
In type 1 diabetes, the immune system damages the pancreatic cells responsible for producing insulin. In insulin resistance, the body’s cells do not respond to the hormone effectively. Persistently high blood sugar can increase the risk of damage to the heart, eyes, nerves and kidneys.
What Are the Early Symptoms?
Possible signs include consistently high blood sugar, fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination and difficulty keeping blood sugar under control. However, these symptoms can have other causes, so they cannot be used alone to diagnose insulin resistance or “double diabetes.”
Vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid or deep breathing, confusion and unusual drowsiness may indicate a more serious complication, particularly diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Who May Have a Higher Risk of Insulin Resistance?
Factors associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance include excess abdominal fat, physical inactivity, an unbalanced diet and a family history of type 2 diabetes.
However, insulin resistance is not limited to people who are overweight. People who are lean can also develop insulin resistance. The condition is also not caused simply by consuming too much sugar, as multiple factors can contribute to it.
Possible Effects on the Body
Persistently high blood sugar can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes can affect vision, while nerve damage may cause pain, burning or numbness in the hands and feet.
The kidneys can also be affected. In the early stages, kidney damage may not cause obvious symptoms. However, protein in the urine and reduced kidney function can be warning signs. In severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may eventually be required.
How Can Complications Be Reduced?
A balanced diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help improve overall health and reduce some risks. Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, along with blood sugar, is also important, while avoiding smoking is recommended.
People with diabetes should follow their doctor’s advice regarding regular eye, foot and kidney examinations, as some complications can progress without obvious symptoms in their early stages.
Patients should also follow medical guidance on managing the risk of low blood sugar during exercise.
An Important Reminder
Insulin remains essential in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. If blood sugar remains consistently high or becomes difficult to control, patients should contact their doctor.
Do not increase or reduce insulin doses on your own. Any adjustment should be made according to medical advice.