Introduction
There are many misconceptions when it comes to Type 1 Diabetes. Many people commonly confuse it with Type 2 Diabetes. Though there are some similarities when it comes to Type 1 and Type 2, we will focus on comparing the different type of diabetes in a later article. Before we start, we must state that we are not Healthcare professionals, and the information that we are providing is for educational and awareness purposes. If you feel that you may show signs of any form of Diabetes, you should see a Healthcare Professional as soon as possible.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Because Type 1 Diabetes would primarily show up in children, for a long time, it was known as Juvenile Diabetes. However now, we tend to see it manifest in several different age groups. Lizzie was diagnosed with Type 1 at the age of 19.
Type 1 Diabetes is an auto-immune disease that strikes the body for unknown reasons. It causes the pancreas produce little to no insulin.
What is Insulin?
Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to regulate glucose (sugar) into energy. Because of this, people with T1D need to calculate their carb intake, current blood sugar and carefully inject themselves with the correct dose of Insulin to lower their blood sugar.
Blood Sugar
Type 1 is a constant battle of keeping the blood sugar at a reasonable level. Just like Insulin plays an important role in bringing the blood sugar down, glucose has just as an important role to keep the blood sugar up.
High Blood Sugar Can Result In:
- Feeling “out of it”
- Headaches
- Extremely Thirsty
- Irritability
Low Blood Sugar Can Result In:
- Feeling Hot
- Becoming Shaky
- Becoming Uncoordinated
- At risk of losing consciousness
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
With the advancement in technology and health care, T1D has become easier to manage over time. With devices such as CGM’s (Continuous Glucose Monitors) that allow people with Type 1 to check their blood sugar on their phones or other devices at anytime without having to prick their fingers several times a day.
Another important device to note, is the Insulin pump. Insulin pumps help deliver insulin to the body with out the need of carrying around syringes at every given moment. These pumps adhere to the body and allow the user to treat their high blood sugar when needed.
Symptoms To Watch Out For
It’s important to catch the signs of Type 1 Diabetes as soon as possible, but unless you know exactly what to look for, you may delay when it comes to seeking a physician’s help. Symptoms may include:
- Extreme Thirst
- Frequent Urination
- Feeling Very Hungry
- Unknown and Sudden Weight Loss
- Mood Swings and Feeling Irritable
- A Constant Feeling of being Tired or Weak
- Blurry Vision
What Causes Type 1 Diabetes?
The cause of T1D is still unknown. However, according to Mayo Clinic, there are a few factors that raise the risk of your chances of having it. You can read their full article at Mayoclinic.org, but their list risk factors includes:
- Family History – You can have a slightly higher risk for developing Type 1 if you have a parent or sibling who have been diagnosed.
- Genetics – Some genes can increase the risk of T1D
- Geography – The number of Type 1 Diabetics tend to be at a higher number than those who live closer to the equator.
- Age – You can develop Type 1 at any age, but there tends to be peaks from children between 4 & 7 years old, as well as between 10 & 14 years old.
Is Type 1 Diabetes Preventable?
At the moment there is no known way to prevent Type 1 Diabetes, but there are ways for you to possibly catch it early and maybe even delay the onset of T1D.
However, if you have a relative that has Type 1, you may qualify for TrialNet risk screening. TrialNet has ongoing clinical studies are looking for ways to slow down and even prevent the progression of the disease.
For more information about risk screening visit TrialNet.org
