Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar (glucose). There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, where the body doesn’t produce insulin, and type 2 diabetes, where the body doesn’t use insulin properly.
Symptoms of diabetes can include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. It is important to manage diabetes through a combination of medication, healthy eating, and regular exercise.
Complications of diabetes can include cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye damage. It is important for people with diabetes to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels and work closely with their healthcare team to prevent and manage complications.
By taking control of their diabetes through lifestyle changes and proper medication management, people with diabetes can lead long, healthy lives.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
More than 38 million individuals in the United States have diabetes, with 90-95% of cases being type 2. While it is more common in older adults, younger people can also be impacted.
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop gradually, and some individuals may not notice any signs at first.
Factors that increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes include prediabetes, excess weight, age over 45, family history, lack of physical activity, gestational diabetes, and certain ethnic backgrounds.
Additionally, having non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can also raise the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes requires making lifestyle changes such as weight management, healthy eating, and regular exercise.
Insulin and Complications
Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, regulates blood sugar levels. In type 2 diabetes, cells do not respond properly to insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels and potential complications like heart disease and kidney problems.
It is important for individuals with type 2 diabetes to monitor and control their blood sugar levels through medication, diet, and exercise. Failure to do so can lead to serious complications such as nerve damage, vision problems, and an increased risk of infections.
In addition to managing blood sugar levels, individuals with type 2 diabetes should also be screened regularly for other health issues related to the disease, such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and kidney function. By staying on top of these factors, individuals can reduce their risk of developing complications and improve their overall health and quality of life.
Diagnosis and Management
Diabetes can be diagnosed through a simple blood test. Managing the condition involves lifestyle adjustments, medications, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Consulting with healthcare professionals and diabetes educators can significantly aid in effectively managing the condition.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
The risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include obesity, age, family history, ethnicity, physical inactivity, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Children and teenagers are also susceptible to the condition, particularly if born with low birth weight or if their parent had gestational diabetes.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes like adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing weight can help reduce the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.
Pre-Diabetes and Prevention Program
Pre-diabetes heightens the risk of developing type 2 diabetes but can be managed through lifestyle modifications and participation in prevention programs.
Diabetes Treatment and Complications
Treating type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels. Diabetes increases the susceptibility to heart disease, kidney issues, nerve damage, vision problems, and gum disease.
Development of Type 2 Diabetes
Risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes encompass obesity, age, family history, ethnicity, physical inactivity, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Engage in discussions with a healthcare provider to effectively manage health conditions and diminish the risk of diabetes. Take the Diabetes Risk Test for further information.
It is important to maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Monitoring blood sugar levels and getting regular check-ups can also help in early detection and management of diabetes.
Weight Management and Prevention
To prevent type 2 diabetes, focus on achieving weight loss, staying physically active, and monitoring body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI aids in determining if an individual has a healthy weight or is at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specific BMI ranges indicate overweight status for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
If you are 20 years or older, utilize the BMI calculator for adults to ascertain your body mass index.
A separate calculator catered to children and teenagers aged 2–19 years uses BMI, sex, and age to estimate whether they have overweight or obesity.
Waist circumference
To gauge your risk of developing diabetes, measure your waist circumference. Men face a higher risk if their waist circumference exceeds 40 inches, while non-pregnant women face a higher risk if their waist circumference surpasses 35 inches.
Waist circumference serves as an indirect measure of abdominal fat and is a risk factor for diabetes and heart disease, even if BMI is normal.
References
[1] American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Standards of medical care in diabetes—2022. Diabetes Care. 2022;45(suppl 1):S17–S38. doi:10.2337/dc22-S002
[2] Knowler WC, Barrett-Connor E, Fowler SE, et al. Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or metformin. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2002;346(6):393–403. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa012512
[3] NHLBI Obesity Education Initiative Expert Panel on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Obesity in Adults (US). Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults: The Evidence Report. National Institutes of Health; 1998. NIH publication 98-4083. Accessed July 11, 2022. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2003
[4] Swinburn BA, Ley SJ, Carmichael HE, Plank LD. Body size and composition in Polynesians. International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders. 1999;23(11):1178–1183. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0801053
[5] Jowitt LM. Ethnicity and type 2 diabetes in Pacific Island adults in New Zealand. International Journal of Diabetes and Clinical Research. 2014;1:014. doi:10.23937/2377-3634/1410014. Accessed July 11, 2022.
https://clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijdcr/ijdcr-1-014.pdf (PDF, 372 KB)
[6] Klein S, Allison DB, Heymsfield SB, et al. Waist circumference and cardiometabolic risk: a consensus statement from Shaping America’s Health: Association for Weight Management and Obesity Prevention; NAASO, the Obesity Society; the American Society for Nutrition; and the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2007;30(6):1647–1652. doi:10.2337/dc07-9921
[7] Cerhan JR, Moore SC, Jacobs EJ, et al. A pooled analysis of waist circumference and mortality in 650,000 adults. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2014;89(3):335–345. doi:10.1016/j. mayocp.2013.11.011
This content is provided by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. NIDDK translates research findings to increase knowledge about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public.
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Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body convert sugar (glucose) from food into energy. Without enough insulin, sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead of being absorbed by cells for energy.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, although it can occur at any age. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Managing type 1 diabetes involves daily monitoring of blood sugar levels, insulin injections or pump therapy, following a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular medical check-ups. It is important for individuals with type 1 diabetes to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan and to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage.
Research into new treatments and potential cures for type 1 diabetes is ongoing, and advances in technology have made managing the condition easier and more effective. With proper care and support, people with type 1 diabetes can live full and active lives.
Key facts
- Diabetes occurs when your body cannot regulate healthy glucose levels in the blood.
- Type 1 diabetes results from the immune system attacking and destroying insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and fatigue.
- Type 1 diabetes can be managed through insulin therapy and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
What is type 1 diabetes?
Diabetes stems from insufficient regulation of glucose in the blood.
In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas fails to produce insulin, which is responsible for transferring glucose from the blood to the cells for energy. Without sufficient insulin, glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Type 1 diabetes can be diagnosed at any age, but it is more prevalent in young individuals, typically diagnosed between ages 10 and 14.
While there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, treatments are available.
What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?
You may observe the ‘four Ts’ symptoms of type 1 diabetes:
- Thirst — constant thirst and hunger
- Toilet — increased urination
- Thinner — unexplained weight loss
- Tired — excessive fatigue
Blurred vision may also be experienced by some individuals.
These symptoms could be due to elevated blood glucose levels over a period of days or weeks.
What are the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a medical emergency. If someone exhibits signs of DKA, confusion, or unconsciousness, call an ambulance immediately.
For some individuals, DKA might be the initial indication of type 1 diabetes.
Symptoms include rapid breathing, breath smelling of acetone, flushed cheeks, and vomiting.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Utilize the Symptom Checker to determine if medical assistance is necessary.
What causes type 1 diabetes?
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes remains unknown.
It often involves an autoimmune process in which the immune system targets and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
A genetic predisposition to type 1 diabetes increases the likelihood of developing the condition if a close family member has it.
When should I see my doctor?
If you notice any symptoms of type 1 diabetes, seek prompt medical attention.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — Use the Service Finder to locate healthcare providers.
Other signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes may include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Blurred vision
It’s important to see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan in place.
How is type 1 diabetes diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and conduct tests if type 1 diabetes is suspected:
- finger-prick blood test for glucose level
- urine test for glucose and ketones
If glucose levels are elevated, immediate hospital assessment and treatment will be recommended.
Emergency treatment is imperative for children, adolescents, and adults with type 1 diabetes.
If diagnosed, you will be referred to a specialized diabetes team for ongoing care.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Use the Question Builder to prepare for your appointment.
In addition to the tests mentioned above, further tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. These may include:
- glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test
- autoantibody tests
- c-peptide test
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and visits to your diabetes team are crucial for managing type 1 diabetes effectively.
How is type 1 diabetes treated?
Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured but can be effectively managed.
Insulin replacement is crucial for regulating blood glucose levels. Insulin may be administered via a pump or pen.
A healthy diet and regular physical activity play significant roles in controlling blood glucose levels and overall well-being.
Consistent blood tests and health assessments are essential for monitoring and mitigating diabetes-related complications.
Having a plan for managing diabetes during sickness is vital.
Living with type 1 diabetes
Receiving a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes can be daunting, but a healthcare team will aid in managing your condition effectively.
Type 1 diabetes management comprises:
- working with a diabetes educator to manage and monitor blood glucose levels
- receiving guidance from a dietitian to maintain a healthy diet
- getting advice from an exercise physiologist to stay physically active
- regular health checkups including monitoring blood pressure and kidney function
- foot monitoring by a podiatrist to watch for ulcers and other issues
- eye health checks by an optometrist or ophthalmologist
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes. It occurs when the body is unable to use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin, so it starts breaking down fat as an alternative energy source. This process leads to the production of ketones, which are acidic substances that build up in the blood and urine.
Symptoms of DKA can include extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, and confusion. If left untreated, DKA can progress to coma and even death.
Immediate medical attention is crucial for managing DKA. Treatment typically involves intravenous fluids to rehydrate the body, insulin therapy to lower blood glucose levels, and electrolyte replacement to restore balance.
Preventing DKA involves diligent monitoring of blood glucose levels, adherence to insulin therapy, and timely intervention when signs of high blood sugar or ketosis are present. Education about the warning signs of DKA and how to respond appropriately can help individuals with type 1 diabetes avoid this serious complication.
Can type 1 diabetes be prevented?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Unfortunately, at this time, there is no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes, even with adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Researchers are still studying the causes of type 1 diabetes in hopes of finding ways to prevent it in the future. In the meantime, it is important for individuals with type 1 diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition and stay healthy.
Resources and support
Visit Diabetes Australia for valuable information and resources. Alternatively, you can:
- call Diabetes Australia at 1800 177 055
- access resources designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individuals
- explore multicultural resources
The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) offers a range of resources, support services, and subsidized diabetes products. Furthermore, the NDSS website provides diabetes information in languages other than English.
If additional assistance is needed, you can reach out to the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 (NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). Registered nurses are available to assist you 24/7.
Source:
Last reviewed: October 2024
It’s important to stay informed about diabetes management and prevention. In addition to the resources mentioned above, consider joining support groups or attending workshops to connect with others facing similar challenges. Remember to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific needs.
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Type 1 diabetes | Diabetes Australia
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system targets and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas responsible for insulin production.
Additional information can be found on the Diabetes Australia website.
Type 1 diabetes – Diabetes Victoria
For further details, visit the Diabetes Victoria website.
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