DIABETES
Type 1 Diabetes
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes is a disease that starts when the pancreas (an organ in the abdomen) isn't able to make enough insulin. Because there isn't enough insulin, sugar (glucose) levels in the blood become very high (hyperglycemia). Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age but it usually begins in children or young adults. It is a disease that lasts for your entire life and puts you at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, vision problems, neuropathies (nerve problems) and kidney disease. With treatment and a healthy lifestyle however, persons living with Type 1 Diabetes can live long and healthy lives.
What Causes Type 1 Diabetes?
The pancreas makes insulin in special cells called beta cells. In Type 1 Diabetes, the immune system destroys beta cells so the pancreas can no longer make enough insulin. Without insulin, the sugar in your blood accumulates quickly and can lead to very serious and life-threatening health problems.
What are the Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes?
Classic symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes are frequent urination, feeling very thirsty all the time, being hungrier than usual, losing weight without trying, and having blurred vision. These symptoms are all caused by very high blood sugar. Sometimes people have more vague symptoms like nausea and vomiting which can be mistaken for other illnesses like the stomach flu.
Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is diagnosed with a blood test that tells your doctor how much sugar is in your blood. If you are diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, your doctor will likely want to do more tests on you to see if you have any other conditions that are common in people with Type 1 Diabetes.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to keep the sugar in your blood within normal range. This is accomplished with insulin, making healthy food choices, and engaging in physical activity. Persons with Type 1 Diabetes have to check their blood sugar several times a day to determine how much insulin they need to take.
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It is very important for people with Type 1 Diabetes to keep their blood sugars within target range in order to avoid any complications. People with Type 1 Diabetes need to have regular check-ups with their doctor, usually every 3 months. Sometimes these patients also have specialists involved in their care, especially if they are having complications.