Type 1 Diabetes is a serious life long problem in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to control the blood sugar levels at recommended levels. As a result the blood sugar level increases. This is usually found in the children and adolescents. Subsequently Type 1 Diabetes is also referred to as insulin dependent diabetes and juvenile diabetes.
Symptoms
- Increase in thirst: When blood sugar level is high, there is loss of water from the body tissues due to osmosis. As a result the person is constantly thirsty.
- Frequent urination: When your thirst increases your water intake also increases. Consequently you urinate more.
- Increased hunger and appetite: Due to insulin deficiency sugar does not reach the body tissues. Hence body cells, muscles and organs are depleted of their energy provider causing intense hunger pangs. These pangs do not subside even after you have eaten.
- Feeling of fatigue: Since the cells do not receive enough sugar you feel tired and irritated all the time.
- Loss of weight: In spite of the increased appetite you continue to lose weight. This is because in the absence of sugar supplies the energy stored in the tissues and fat deposits get used and weight decreases.
Diagnosis
Unlike type-2 diabetes the symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes develop quickly in a very short span of time causing serious consequences. It is therefore imperative that you seek medical advice if you are experiencing any or all of the above mentioned symptoms. The first step is to do a blood test to confirm that you are diabetic.
- Blood tests: Usually two types of blood tests are done. They are
- Random blood sugar test: Blood sample is taken randomly. If the result shows a random blood sugar level of 200mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter ) or more it is an indication of diabetes. A fasting blood test will help to confirm this.
- Fasting blood sugar test: If the blood sample taken after an overnight fast reveals blood sugar levels between 100 – 125 mg/dL it is a cause of concern. This range is considered as pre-diabetes indicating that you have high probability of developing Diabetes. And if the level is above 125 mg/dL you are diagnosed with diabetes.
Once blood test indicates diabetes, following tests need to be done to ascertain that it is type 1 diabetes.
- Urinalysis: Analysis of the urine sample shows the presence of glucose and ketene in the urine if it is Type 1 Diabetes.
- Insulin test: This test reveals only very less or undetectable level of insulin in the blood.
- C-peptide test: C-peptide protein is a by product of insulin production. Its level if negligible is a person id type 1 diabetic.
Treatment
Treatment for
Type 1 Diabetes is a lifelong process to maintain the blood sugar levels close to normal. This will help in delaying or preventing the complications associated with type 1 diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar level, taking insulin supplements, keeping weight in check, healthy eating habits and regular exercises help the person lead a normal life. Following these steps religiously will help
- Monitoring the blood sugar levels daily/periodically: Daily monitoring helps to maintain the sugar level within limits. The person must be trained to test sugar levels himself. Regular Glycated Haemoglobin (A1C) test also helps to measure the blood sugar levels for past 2 to 3 months. This will help in deciding if any changes have to be done in treatment or diet.
- Insulin Administration: Insulin therapy under a medical supervisor will help in maintaining the blood sugar levels within limits. Various types of insulin sources like tablets, injections, pumps etc. are available in the market today.
- Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise: Following a diet plan that is highly nutritious with less fat and calorie rich food is important. Sugar and animal products consumption must be minimal. Exercising regularly is important to lower blood sugar.
Diabetes can be controlled and you can live a normal life if you follow the doctor’s advice dutifully and lead a healthy life.
