Diabetes type 1 | |
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Synonyms | T1D, insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes |
A blue circle, the symbol for diabetes. | |
Pronunciation | |
Specialty | Endocrinology |
Symptoms | Frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, weight loss |
Complications | Diabetic ketoacidosis, nonketotic hyperosmolar coma, poor healing, cardiovascular disease, damage to the eyes |
Usual onset | Relatively short period of time |
Causes | Not enough insulin |
Risk factors | Family history |
Diagnostic method | Blood sugar, A1C |
Prevention | Unknown |
Treatment | Insulin, diabetic diet, exercise |
Frequency | ~7.5% of diabetes cases |
Classification | |
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External resources |
Diabetes mellitus type 1 (also known as type 1 diabetes) is a form of diabetes mellitus in which not enough insulin is produced. This results in high blood sugar levels in the body. The classical symptoms are frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, and weight loss. Additional symptoms may include blurry vision, feeling tired, and poor healing. Symptoms typically develop over a short period of time.
The cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown. However, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include having a family member with the condition. The underlying mechanism involves an autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Diabetes is diagnosed by testing the level of sugar or A1C in the blood. Type 1 diabetes can be distinguished from type 2 by testing for the presence of autoantibodies.
There is no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes. Treatment with insulin is typically required for survival.Insulin therapy is usually given by injection just under the skin but can also be delivered by an insulin pump. A diabetic diet and exercise are an important part of management. Untreated, diabetes can cause many complications. Complications of relatively rapid onset include diabetic ketoacidosis and nonketotic hyperosmolar coma. Long-term complications include heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, foot ulcers and damage to the eyes. Furthermore, complications may arise from low blood sugar caused by excessive dosing of insulin.