Double diabetes is a term that may be used to describe the development of insulin resistance in someone with type 1 diabetes.

Insulin resistance is a state in which the body’s cells develop difficulty using the hormone insulin to process glucose (blood sugar) for energy. It is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes but can also develop in some people with type 1 diabetes, especially those who become overweight or obese.

The most significant risk factor for double diabetes is obesity. A physician may suspect double diabetes in patients with type 1 diabetes who develop signs and symptoms of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In some cases, the patient may have originally been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. To establish a diagnosis, several laboratory tests may be conducted, including autoantibody testing and the C peptide test.

People with double diabetes may be more prone to certain complications, such as heart conditions. However, having double diabetes does not mean a patient will develop more problems, according to the National Diabetes Education Program.

Double diabetes is treated with medication, exercise, diet and weight loss. People can help prevent double diabetes by maintaining a healthy body weight, adhering to a healthful diet regimen, being physically active and getting regular medical care.