Type 1 diabetes is also known as insulin-dependent, juvenile or child-onset diabetes. Find out more about symptoms and and management practices using the drop down button.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is also known as insulin-dependent, juvenile or child-onset diabetes. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body loses its ability to produce insulin. It is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence but can also develop in adults.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes mostly appear suddenly. Some of these include:
Rapid weight loss
Frequent urination (polyuria)
Increased thirst (polydipsia)
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Bed-wetting (nocturnal enuresis)
Fatigue
Blurry vision
What are the causes?
The exact cause of the autoimmune response is unknown.
However, two factors that contribute to Type 1 diabetes are:
Genetics: People who have a parent, sibling or any other family history of type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing it.
Environmental factors: Environmental triggers such as exposure to viruses and chemicals can trigger an autoimmune response. This can happen over months or years, leading to a complete insulin deficiency.
How is is diagnosed?
The diagnosis of type 1 diabetes can be done using any of the following tests:
Blood Glucose Test: These tests are used to check the amount of sugar in the blood. A random blood sugar test result of 200 mg/dL or higher or a fasting blood sugar test of 126mg/dL or higher indicates the possibility of diabetes.
Blood sugar values are expressed in milligrams of sugar per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles of sugar per litre (mmol/L) of blood.
Urinalysis: These tests are used to check for ketones in your urine. High ketones in the urine mean that the person has Type 1 diabetes.
What are the treatment and management plans?
There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes. However, managing the condition is done through any of these medical practices and recommendations:
Insulin Therapy: People with Type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin, so they need to be given insulin via daily injections, pens or a pump. The doctor will determine the type of insulin therapy required for each case.
Regular Monitoring: Monitoring blood sugar levels helps patients adjust insulin doses or lifestyle choices when necessary.
Lifestyle Changes: Diabetic patients are encouraged to eat foods low in sugar and processed carbohydrates. Foods high in nutrients and fibre are also recommended. Regular exercise and physical activity also help reduce your blood sugar levels.
Children with Type 1 diabetes will need to see a pediatric endocrinologist.
