Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease. It is also called as Juvenile onset diabetes and Insulin-dependent diabetes. This ailment affects a greater proportion of children than adults. The affected adults are usually of normal weight at the commencement of the disease. It has been found that fair-complexioned persons and certain ethnic groups are more prone to developing Type 1. Approximately, 10% of all diabetic patients suffer from Type 1.
It is an autoimmune disease. In other words, the immune system considers the beta cells of the pancreas as a foreign body and destroys them. Beta cells are responsible for producing the hormone insulin. Insulin enables the cells of the body to take in the glucose from the bloodstream and utilize it for various activities. The destruction of the beta cells means that either the production of insulin stops completely or is produced in minimal quantities. This results in high glucose levels in the blood.
The symptoms of Type 1 manifest themselves long after the destruction of the beta cells has begun. These appear in a very short period, usually within a span of a few weeks or months. The symptoms include increased thirst, urination and appetite, fatigue, dearth of menstruation and abdominal pain, amongst other signs.
Researchers are not yet completely sure of what exactly causes Type1 diabetes. Studies suggest that genetic, environmental impact and exposure to certain viruses may cause the disease. Some studies have shown a link between breastfeeding babies and reduced risk of Type 1. However, this has not yet been proved.
If you suspect that you are diabetic, you should consult your physician. The physician will ask you to undergo the routine tests for diabetes, namely fasting plasma glucose test, random plasma glucose test, and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A urine sample may also be tested for the presence of ketones. High levels of ketones are dangerous and signify that the patient is suffering from Type 1. Ketones are produced when the body does not get enough glucose to utilize for its energy requirements. Consequently, it breaks down the fat and muscle tissues of the body, thus producing ketones.
While this ailment is not curable, it can be managed. If you are diagnosed with Type 1, you will need to undergo insulin replacement therapy on a daily basis. The intake of insulin can either be through injections or through an insulin pump. You will also need to learn how to monitor the blood glucose levels by using a glucometer. Blood sugar levels that are much higher or lower than normal are dangerous and can lead to complications.
As a last resort, pancreas transplant may be considered, especially when the kidney needs to be transplanted or the blood sugar values are extremely unstable. This is done only in extreme cases, as doctors consider the surgery and the immunosuppression required as risky.
More often than not, just maintaining a healthy lifestyle will go a long way in controlling your diabetes.