Understanding Type 1 Diabetes: The Autoimmune Insulin Deficiency
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition that occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin, the hormone responsible for allowing glucose in the blood to enter cells, providing them with the energy to function.
The Autoimmune Reaction
In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Genetics and environmental factors, such as a virus, may trigger this autoimmune response. Unlike type 2 diabetes, type 1 is not related to lifestyle or diet.
Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
The onset of type 1 diabetes can be sudden and symptoms can be severe. They include:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination: As excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, fluid is pulled from the tissues.
- Extreme hunger: Without enough insulin to move sugar into cells, muscles and organs become depleted of energy, triggering intense hunger.
- Weight loss: Despite eating more than usual to relieve hunger, uncontrolled type 1 diabetes can result in weight loss.
- Fatigue: Lack of sugar in cells can make one feel tired and irritable.
- Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can pull fluid from lenses in the eyes, affecting the ability to focus.
- Slow-healing sores and frequent infections: Type 1 diabetes affects the body’s ability to heal and resist infections, especially on the skin.
Diagnosis
Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed through several blood tests:
- Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months.
- Random blood sugar test: Measures blood sugar at a random moment regardless of when you last ate.
- Fasting blood sugar test: Taken after an overnight fast.
- Autoantibody tests: Confirm the presence of immune system cells that attack the pancreas.
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
Managing type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy. Insulin must be delivered into the fatty tissue just under the skin by injections or an insulin pump. Blood sugar monitoring is essential to manage insulin dosing and diet.
- Dietary Choices: Counting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to maintain blood sugar control.
- Regular Exercise: Which affects blood sugar levels and insulin needs.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): For some, using a CGM system provides real-time readings of blood sugar levels.
Complications of Type 1 Diabetes
Without proper management, type 1 diabetes can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, foot damage, skin conditions, and pregnancy complications.
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires careful daily attention to insulin therapy, diet, and lifestyle habits to manage blood sugar levels and prevent complications. With the right treatment plan and a supportive healthcare team, individuals with type 1 diabetes can lead full and active lives. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of diabetes, seek medical advice promptly for a proper diagnosis and to begin a management plan.