What is Type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease results when the body's system for fighting infection (the immune system) turns against a part of the body. With diabetes, the immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas and destroys them. The pancreas then produces little or no insulin. A person who has Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to live.
Who is at risk for Type 1 diabetes?
Currently, scientists do not know exactly what causes the body's immune system to attack the beta cells, but they believe that autoimmune, genetic, and environmental factors, possibly viruses, are involved. Type 1 diabetes accounts for about 5 to 10 percent of diagnosed diabetes in the United States. It develops most often in children and young adults, and therefore, used to be referred to as “juvenile diabetes”. But Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age.
What are the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes?
Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes – lack of insulin – usually develop suddenly, although beta cell destruction can begin years earlier. Symptoms include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination (which can lead to bed-wetting in children)
- Constant hunger
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Extreme fatigue
- Irritability
- Nausea
If not diagnosed and treated with insulin, a person with Type 1 diabetes can lapse into a life-threatening diabetic coma, also known as diabetic ketoacidosis (kee-toh-as-eh-doh-sis).
How Is Type 1 Diabetes Treated?
Currently, there is no cure for Type 1 diabetes. Once it develops, a person has it for the rest of his/her life. To live a healthier, active life, people with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to help their body use glucose effectively. Keeping blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible also requires a balanced eating and exercise plan. It’s important for people with Type 1 diabetes to follow their doctors’ care plan and keepregular check ups – especially A1C tests, retinal eye exams, kidney function tests and foot exams.
For more information on Type 1 diabetes, visit
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health -
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases -
- World Health Organization –
- “Type 2 Diabetes” by Chris Woolston, contributing editor for Consumer Health Interactive. Published by Consumer Health Interactive May 28, 2003 -
This information is intended for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your physician for advice about changes that may affect your health.