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You may have heard recently about a new type of diabetes that is being classified as “type 3” diabetes. This article discusses everything that is known so far about type 3 diabetes.
What is type 3 diabetes?
Type 3 diabetes is a new classification of diabetes, in which people have type 2 diabetes and are also diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Alzheimer’s is triggered by insulin resistance in the brain.
What is the link between Alzheimer’s and diabetes?
Although the connection between Alzheimer’s and diabetes is still not completely known, diabetes can affect the brain in a few different ways. Over time, poorly managed diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the brain, and can change the chemical balance in the brain, both which may trigger Alzheimer’s. Additionally, high blood sugar causes inflammation, which may further damage brain cells.
Insulin resistance in the brain can also affect the ability to perform basic tasks such as memory and learning. Deposits of a type of protein called “amyloid beta,” which builds up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease, have also been shown to stop insulin receptors in the brain from doing their job. This can have a negative effect on insulin production and cause the brain cells to become insensitive to insulin.
A recent study was undertaken to determine whether a new insulin formulation – delivered as a nasal spray, rather than an injection – might improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. The results of that study will soon be published.
What are some risk factors for type 3 diabetes?
People who have type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s or dementia (type 3 diabetes).
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include:
- a family history of diabetes
- high blood pressure
- being overweight or obese
- certain chronic health conditions, such as depression, schizophrenia, or PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).
What are the symptoms of type 3 diabetes?
Symptoms of type 3 diabetes are similar to the early symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s. These symptoms include:
- Memory loss or forgetfulness
- Difficult completing familiar tasks
- Misplacing things
- Difficulty making judgements based on given information
- Changes in personality, or appearance
Can I prevent type 3 diabetes?
If you already have type 2 diabetes, the best way to prevent type 3 diabetes is to have good control over your diabetes and blood sugars. Here are some ways prevent disease progression and other complications:
- Maintain a diabetes friendly diet
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Self-monitor your blood sugars according to doctor recommendations
- Take all medications as prescribed
- Maintain a healthy weight, or achieve recommended weight loss
If you, or a loved one are experiencing some of these symptoms, it is important to discuss this with a doctor or your diabetes team.
How is type 3 diabetes diagnosed?
There’s no specific test for type 3 diabetes. Your doctor may ask questions about your symptoms, questions to test your memory and cognitive functioning, and any relevant family history. Brain imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may give the doctor a better idea of how your brain is working.
How is type 3 diabetes treated?
Treatment includes lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, smoking cessation and weight loss.
If you have both type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s, proper management of your type 2 diabetes is important to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s. Your doctor will likely prescribe Metformin, a diabetes medication that may also help treat symptoms of dementia.
Prescribe medications to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia exist as well. Your doctor may recommend one of these drugs, to slow the progression of the disease.
