As doc how do u distinguish type 1 diabetes from type 2? why does type 1 require only insulin?

Many ways: The presence of antibodies against the cell that produce Insulin and a low Insulin level in a patient with high blood sugar means type 1. If blood sugar is high , Insulin level is high and antibodies are negative in an obese patient it means type2.

Younger versus older: Type i diabetics do not make Insulin and type 2 diabetics make insulin, but it is ineffective. Usually type 1 diabetes presents in childhood and type 2 as adult. Type one is usually the result of an infection that wipes out the cells that make insulin, thus no Insulin production. Type 2 diabetics are usually older and overweight and although they make isulin it does not work as well.

Loss of production: A true type 1 diabetic loses their ability to make insulin.Occasionaly in the first year, some production remains, and minimal supplements may be needed.Later on the child needs externally supplied Insulin rx to transport glucose into the brain; other cells. Type 2 diabetics have Insulin that doesn't handle their needs unless they manage their diet, type 1 does not.Without Insulin these kids die.