Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in little to no insulin production, leading to high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Without sufficient insulin, glucose cannot enter cells for energy, causing cells to starve while glucose accumulates in the bloodstream. Over time, hyperglycemia can damage organs and tissues throughout the body.
Clinical Evaluation
Symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision.
Physical Examination: Measurement of blood glucose levels. Testing for ketones in urine, which can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in severe cases.
Diagnostic Tests
Glucose Tests: Fasting plasma glucose test, oral glucose tolerance test, random plasma glucose test.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test: Measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.
Autoantibody Tests: Detects antibodies against pancreatic beta cells (e.g., GAD antibodies, IA-2 antibodies).
Increased thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria).
Extreme hunger (polyphagia) despite eating.
Unexplained weight loss.
Fatigue and weakness.
Blurred vision.
Slow-healing sores or frequent infections.
Mood changes.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in severe cases, characterized by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath odor, and confusion.
Management of Type 1 Diabetes focuses on maintaining blood glucose levels within target ranges and preventing complications:
Insulin Therapy: Daily injections of insulin or use of an insulin pump to replace the insulin the body is unable to produce.
Blood Glucose Monitoring: Regular testing to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust insulin doses as needed.
Dietary Management: Healthy eating plan to balance carbohydrate intake with insulin doses and maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
Education and Support: Diabetes self-management education (DSME) to learn about diabetes management, including monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
Complication Prevention: Monitoring for and managing complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease.
Psychosocial Support: Counseling and support groups to address the emotional and psychological aspects of living with diabetes.