Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the way the body produces insulin, a hormone that regulates the body’s blood glucose (sugar) levels. In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas called beta cells, which produce insulin. This results in the body’s inability to produce enough insulin to properly regulate the body’s blood glucose levels, which can lead to serious health problems.
Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision and slow healing of cuts and wounds. If left untreated, type 1 diabetes can cause serious health problems, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the most common risk factors for type 1 diabetes include a family history of the condition, being of Western European ancestry, and having a certain type of virus or other environmental trigger.
The primary treatment for type 1 diabetes is:
Other treatments include:
It’s also important to monitor for potential complications such as:
To help manage the condition, healthcare providers may also recommend regular visits with a certified diabetes educator, diabetes support group and/or a mental health provider. With proper management, people with type 1 diabetes can live long, healthy and active lives.
People with Type 1 diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels regularly, several times a day, in order to manage their insulin therapy and avoid complications.
Currently, there is no cure for Type 1 diabetes. However, with proper management and treatment, people with Type 1 diabetes can lead healthy, normal lives.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage Type 1 diabetes include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, monitoring blood sugar levels, taking insulin as prescribed, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Exercise can cause blood sugar levels to drop in people with Type 1 diabetes, so it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust insulin therapy or food intake accordingly.
Some potential side effects of insulin therapy can include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), weight gain, and injection site reactions.
