Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
Type 1 diabetes, often referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar (glucose). Unlike type 2 diabetes, which typically develops over time and is influenced by lifestyle factors, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas called beta cells.
This condition is relatively rare, with fewer than 200,000 cases in the United States each year. It makes up only about 5-10% of all diabetes diagnoses. It can also take months or even years before symptoms are noticed! Recognizing this condition and getting proper treatment is the best way to avoid serious health complications. Here, PatientsLikeMe will provide an overview of the condition and what to watch for.
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Cause of Type 1 Diabetes
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not fully understood. It is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. These can include viral infections, toxins, or other triggers that may prompt the immune system to attack the pancreas.
The immune system is the body's way of defending itself against infection. This network of organs and cells keeps a record of every germ is has encountered. Whenever you have an unknown virus or contagion, the immune system starts to produce white blood cells that move throughout the body and attack the invader.
In people with type 1 diabetes, the immune system is not working properly. Instead of fighting off infections, it attacks and destroys the beta cells of the pancreas. These cells are what produce insulin in the body, and without that insulin blood sugar levels start to rise rapidly. High blood sugar is damaging to the body, and causes further complications.
Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes can develop quickly and may include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- Irritability and mood changes
- Blurred vision
- Bedwetting (in children who were previously dry at night)
Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes
Fortunately, diagnosing type 1 diabetes is fairly simple. It usually involves blood tests to measure blood glucose levels conducted by your healthcare team. Additional tests may be done to check for the presence of autoantibodies that target the pancreas. These tests help differentiate type 1 diabetes from other forms of diabetes:
- Blood Glucose Test: This test measures the level of sugar in your blood. It can be collected from a fingertip prick or from the vein, and your provider will likely have you fast before coming in for the test. There are also at-home testing kits, as people with type 1 diabetes often need to monitor their blood sugar several times a day.
- Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test (A1C): An A1C test differs slightly from a blood glucose test. While they both measure blood sugar, A1C looks at the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. The results tell you what percentage of your hemoglobin is coated with glucose. The percent ranges are just a guide to what is normal. If you already have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is a good glimpse at whether your treatment plan is working effectively.
- Antibody Test: Antibodies are made when your immune system is fighting off germs or an infection. There are four antibodies that the test checks for. Combinations of these antibodies in high levels could mean you have type 1 diabetes. They often show up years before symptoms begin as well. For those with a family history of the condition, this can be a useful test.
Checking for Complications
There are a few tests your provider may order to assess your overall health as well. Diabetes-related ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of undiagnosed or untreated type 1 diabetes. They may run:
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): A BMP is a blood sample test that measures the levels of eight different substances. This panel gives doctors insight into your body's chemical balance and metabolism. From this, they can determine if your body is functioning properly, or if further testing is needed.
- Urinalysis: Your doctor may check your urine for ketones. In a healthy body, you use insulin to convert blood sugar into energy. However if you don't have enough insulin, you start to use fat. When you use fat for energy, your liver starts to produce ketones. These ketones can build up in the blood, becoming acidic and leading to DKA. Those with type 1 diabetes have low insulin levels, and are at a higher risk of producing ketones.
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): An ABG test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. It also checks the balance of acids and bases, known as the pH level. This helps doctors figure out whether your respiratory and circulatory systems are working properly. Because DKA affects the acidity of the blood, this can quickly determine whether you are at risk.
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong management, but with proper treatment, people with the condition can live healthy and fulfilling lives. Treatment typically involves:
Insulin Therapy
Since the body no longer produces insulin, insulin injections or an insulin pump are necessary to regulate blood sugar levels.
PatientsLikeMe members have reported using the following insulin treatments and other common medications:
- Insulin Aspart (Novolog)
- Insulin Glargine (Lantus)
- Insulin Lispro (Humalog)
- Insulin Regular (Humulin R)
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels helps individuals adjust insulin doses and manage their condition effectively.
Healthy Eating
A balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with regular meal times, can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
To maintain your blood sugar levels be sure to not skip meals, match your insulin to your eating schedule, and pay attention to food labels.
Consider adding theses items to your grocery rotation:
- Asparagus
- Avocado
- Bacon
- Beets
- Chicken or Turkey
- Coconut milk
- Fish
- Green beans
- Olives
- Onions
- Peanut butter
- Peppers
- Tofu or tempeh
Physical Activity
Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it's important to monitor blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise. Try any of the following:
- Running
- Swimming
- Biking
- Gymnastics
- Weight-Lifting
Education and Support
Learning about diabetes management and receiving support from healthcare professionals, diabetes educators, and support groups can empower individuals to take control of their condition.
Health Risks
Poorly managed type 1 diabetes can lead to various complications over time. Having continuously high blood pressure can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Some of the most common risks include:
- Heart Disease and Stroke: If you have diabetes, you are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke than someone who does not. This can happen even at a younger age. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
- Kidney Damage: Diabetes can cause kidney damage, leading to kidney failure in severe cases. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, as well as these small filter called nephrons. When this filtering system starts to fail, it is harder to remove waste from the body.
- Nerve Damage: Elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or pain, particularly in the feet and hands. Half of all people with diabetes have nerve damage of some kind.
- Eye Damage: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness. It is important to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
- Foot Problems: Nerve damage and poor circulation can increase the risk of foot ulcers and infections. Diabetes can also lower the amount of blood flow to the foot. This in turn makes it harder for the foot to heal. You may find it helpful to reconsider your current shoe and sock choices because improper footwear can lead to restricted blood flow. Rarely, diabetes can actually change the shape of the foot.
Living with Type 1 Diabetes
Managing type 1 diabetes requires ongoing attention and effort, but it's entirely possible to live a full and active life with the condition. It is important to stay educated. Learn as much as you can about diabetes management, including how to monitor blood sugar levels, administer insulin, and recognize and treat hypo/hyperglycemia.
Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, get enough sleep, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Regularly monitor blood sugar levels as directed by your healthcare provider and adjust insulin doses accordingly. Keep regular appointments with your healthcare team, and don't hesitate to ask questions or seek support when needed. Communication is essential!
Managing diabetes can be challenging, so it's essential to prioritize your emotional well-being as well. People with diabetes are 2 to 3 times more likely to have depression than those without. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups, and consider speaking with a mental health professional if you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires careful management. With proper treatment and self-care, people with the condition can lead healthy and fulfilling lives! By staying informed, following a treatment plan, and making healthy lifestyle choices, people with type 1 diabetes can minimize the risk of complications and live well with the condition. If you suspect you may have type 1 diabetes or have been recently diagnosed, it's essential to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized management plan that meets your needs.
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