What is Brittle Diabetes? Can it affect type 2 diabetics? What are the symptoms? Brittle diabetes mostly affects individuals between the age group 15-30, but it also occurs during old age. Should we hit the panic button on this health problem? Let’s find answers to these questions.

Brittle diabetes is also known as labile diabetes. ‘Brittle diabetes occurs in insulin dependent diabetics (typically type 1) whose blood sugar fluctuates greatly and unpredictably.’ (Via) This frequent fluctuation can hamper your daily activities.

The outcome of Brittle Diabetes:
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

Other health problems of Brittle Diabetes:
Gastroperesis – Delay in removal of stools
Hormonal imbalance
Problems with insulin absorption
Hypothyroidism
Adrenal gland imbalance

Worse case scenario, brittle diabetes may lead to:
Diabetic Ketoacidosis – ‘It occurs when the body cannot use sugar (glucose) as a fuel source because there is no insulin or not enough insulin. Fat is used for fuel instead.’ (Via)
Coma

Causes of Brittle Diabetes:
It is not clear what causes brittle diabetes, but common knowledge suggestions:
Stress
Depression
Gastrointestinal problems

Treatment for Brittle Diabetes:
Based on the cause – physiological or psychological, the patient will be treated. Hospitalization will be needed to monitor food, insulin and mental state. Appropriate medications will be administered under the supervision of an authorized doctor.

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