Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which your body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. As a result, your body can't produce enough insulin, a hormone that helps move glucose (sugar) from your blood into your cells for energy. Although type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in children and young adults, it can develop at any age.
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes can come on quickly and may include:
Extreme thirst
Increased hunger
Frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Nausea and vomiting
In children, additional symptoms may include diaper rash that doesn't improve with treatment, bed-wetting in potty-trained children, and fruity-smelling breath.
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you have a parent or sibling with type 1 diabetes, your risk of developing the condition is higher. Other risk factors include being younger than 20 years old and being of Caucasian descent.
If your doctor suspects you have type 1 diabetes, they will check your blood sugar levels using tests such as the A1c test, fasting blood sugar test, or random blood sugar test. To confirm the diagnosis, they may also look for autoantibodies in your blood and check for ketones in your urine.
Managing type 1 diabetes involves keeping your blood sugar levels within a target range set by your doctor. This can be achieved through a combination of:
Taking insulin injections or using an insulin pump
Monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly
Eating a healthy, balanced diet
Engaging in regular physical activity
Managing stress
Attending regular check-ups with your healthcare team
Your doctor may also prescribe additional medications, such as aspirin or cholesterol-lowering drugs, to help prevent complications associated with type 1 diabetes.
Monitoring your blood sugar levels throughout the day is crucial for managing type 1 diabetes. You can do this by using a blood glucose meter or wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). A CGM uses a sensor placed under your skin to check your glucose levels every few minutes and can alert you if your levels go too high or too low.
Although living with type 1 diabetes can be challenging, it is possible to lead a long, healthy life by making informed choices and working closely with your healthcare team. Staying informed about the latest research and treatments through trusted organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Diabetes Association can help you stay on top of your health and manage your condition effectively.
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