Health A-Z

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone necessary for regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. Here's an overview of symptoms, treatment plans, and diagnosis/testing methods

1. Frequent urination: Excess glucose in the blood causes the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb the glucose. This leads to frequent urination, which may disturb sleep.
2. Increased thirst: As a result of frequent urination, the body becomes dehydrated, causing increased thirst.
3. Unexplained weight loss: Without insulin to help glucose enter cells, the body starts burning fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss.
4. Extreme hunger: Despite eating, the body's cells aren't receiving enough glucose for energy, leading to persistent hunger.
5. Fatigue: Without glucose, the body's cells lack energy, leading to fatigue.
6. Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can affect the fluid levels in the eyes, causing blurred vision.
7. Slow-healing sores or frequent infections: High blood sugar impairs the body's ability to heal and fight infections.

1. Insulin Therapy: Since the body cannot produce insulin, insulin injections or an insulin pump are necessary to regulate blood sugar levels.
2. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels to adjust insulin doses and track how well treatment is working.
3. Carbohydrate Counting: Learning to count carbohydrates and adjust insulin doses accordingly.
4. Healthy Eating: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help manage blood sugar levels.
5. Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
6. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): CGM systems provide real-time glucose readings, helping individuals monitor their levels more closely.

1. Blood Tests: A blood test that measures blood sugar levels. A fasting blood sugar test, oral glucose tolerance test, or glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test may be performed.
2. A1C Test: This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It's a standard test for diagnosing diabetes.
3. Random Blood Sugar Test: Blood sugar levels are measured at a random time. A reading of 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher suggests diabetes.
4. Autoantibody Tests: These tests look for antibodies that your immune system makes against the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Their presence indicates type 1 diabetes.
5. Ketone Testing: Ketones are produced when your body breaks down fat for energy. High levels can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes.