What are the methods for differentiating between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I don't know which type of diabetes my mom has—she won't tell me. What are the ways to differentiate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be distinguished based on external characteristics, among other factors. For more accurate results, individuals can also undergo medical examinations at a hospital. The onset of type 1 diabetes is usually rapid, with most patients being under the age of 30 and exhibiting obvious symptoms. Common manifestations include ketoacidosis and ketonuria, while serum C-peptide levels are typically found to be low upon testing. In contrast, most patients with type 2 diabetes tend to be overweight and often have a family history of the disease.