Organism level systems Revision Notes

Differences in Causes and Onset

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This means the body produces little to no insulin. Its onset is typically rapid, often appearing in childhood or adolescence, and is not linked to lifestyle factors. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or its cells become resistant to insulin (insulin resistance). Its development is usually gradual, often in adulthood, and is strongly associated with lifestyle factors such as excessive weight, inactivity, and poor diet.

Similarities in Symptoms and Effects

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes share common symptoms due to high blood glucose levels. These include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. If left untreated, both types can lead to serious long-term complications affecting various organs, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage (neuropathy), and eye problems, including blindness, due to the damaging effects of persistently high blood sugar on blood vessels and nerves throughout the body.

Treatment Strategies for Type 1 Diabetes

The primary treatment for Type 1 diabetes is lifelong insulin replacement. Since the pancreas produces little to no insulin, patients must administer insulin, typically via injections or an insulin pump. The dosage and timing of insulin are crucial and depend on factors such as food intake, physical activity, and blood glucose levels. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels throughout the day is essential to adjust insulin doses and prevent both dangerously high (hyperglycaemia) and dangerously low (hypoglycaemia) blood sugar levels. A carefully planned diet and regular physical activity are also important components of managing the condition.

Treatment Strategies for Type 2 Diabetes

Treatment for Type 2 diabetes often begins with lifestyle modifications. This includes adopting a healthy diet (e.g., reducing sugar and unhealthy fats, increasing fiber) and engaging in regular physical activity to help manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity. If lifestyle changes are insufficient, oral medications may be prescribed. These medications work in various ways, such as stimulating insulin production, improving the body's response to insulin, or reducing glucose absorption from the gut. As the disease progresses, some individuals with Type 2 diabetes may eventually require insulin injections to control their blood glucose levels.

Specification Link

This nervous system diagram is used for: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system.

What To Explain

Information is passed through the nervous system so the body can coordinate a response.

Exam Answer Move

The mapped objective is: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system. The answer should connect structures such as receptors, neurones, synapses or effectors to coordination and response.

Specification Link

This nervous system diagram is used for: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system.

What To Explain

Information is passed through the nervous system so the body can coordinate a response.

Exam Answer Move

The mapped objective is: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system. The answer should connect structures such as receptors, neurones, synapses or effectors to coordination and response.

Specification Link

This nervous system diagram is used for: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system.

What To Explain

Information is passed through the nervous system so the body can coordinate a response.

Exam Answer Move

The mapped objective is: Communicate the key features of the structure of the nervous system. The answer should connect structures such as receptors, neurones, synapses or effectors to coordination and response.