In type 1 diabetes the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach, stops making insulin. Without insulin, the body’s cells cannot turn glucose (sugar), into energy. Without insulin the body burns its own fats as a substitute. Unless treated with daily injections of insulin, people with type 1 diabetes accumulate dangerous chemical substances in their blood from the burning of fat. This can cause a condition known as ketoacidosis.This condition is potentially life threatening if not treated.
Ketoacidosis is a serious condition associated with illness or very high blood glucose levels in type 1 diabetes. It is a sign of insufficient insulin. Most cases of ketoacidosis occur in people with type 1, it very rarely occurs in people with type 2.
Causes of type 1 Diabetes
It is still unknown but we know it has a strong family link and cannot be prevented. We also know that it has nothing to do with lifestyle, although maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important in helping to manage type 1 diabetes.
There is still no cure and prevention at this stage.
Symptoms
- Being excessively thirsty
- Passing more urine
- Feeling tired and lethargic
- Always feeling hungry
- Having cuts that heal slowly
- Itching, skin infections
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Feeling dizzy
- Leg cramps.
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
While there is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, the disease can be managed through maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular blood glucose testing and insulin or with insulin replacement through lifelong insulin injections (up to 6 every day), by following a healthy diet and eating plan, taking regular exercise and monitoring of blood glucose levels regularly (up to 6 times every day or as directed by a doctor or Credentialled Diabetes Educator).
Keeping blood glucose levels in a healthy range will help prevent both short-term and long-term complications.
