Did you know? Type 1 diabetes used to be known as Juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent, because often children or teenagers are commonly diagnosed with this, but unexpectedly, adults can be diagnosed with this too.
What is insulin? Insulin is a hormone which acts like a key to let blood sugar into your body’s cells to use glucose (sugar ) for energy and regulates them. The level of glucose in your blood may become too high without it.
Now let’s get an overview of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
T1D requires daily insulin administration due to deficient insulin production. It is an autoimmune disease that cannot be reversed or prevented. The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. This results in glucose buildup in the bloodstream, causing life-threatening complications.
Type 1 diabetes differs from type 2 diabetes, which is associated with insulin resistance rather than a complete lack of insulin. While both involve blood sugar and insulin, their causes differ. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease, whereas type 2 occurs when glucose accumulates in the blood, often preventable. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes take years to appear and are usually mild, whereas type 1 symptoms develop quickly.
What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?
The symptoms of type 1 Diabetes are serious as it is a chronic disease which can be life threatening and usually occurs quickly,over a few days to weeks.
Here are some common symptoms:
- Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia) – The kidneys produce more urine due to excess glucose, causing dehydration and extreme thirst.
- Unexplained weight loss – Despite eating normally, weight loss occurs as the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy.
- Fatigue (hyperglycemia) – The lack of glucose uptake by cells leads to tiredness.
- Blurred vision – Fluid shifts in the eye lens cause swelling and distorted vision
Some other symptoms may include confusion, irritability alongwith mood changes, increased hunger , weakness, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can be diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA). It’s a life-threatening condition due to which these symptoms are caused.
What is ketoacidosis?
An acid known as ketones is produced in the liver. It is produced as an alternative fuel because of the inability of cells to produce glucose which they need for energy. It can cause heart problems and also affects the nervous system because they build up in the blood and cause a risk of death and coma for adults.
Do adults have Type 1 diabetes?
Yes, type 1 diabetes can develop in adulthood due to genetic and environmental factors. Having a family member with the condition increases the risk. Though more common in childhood, adults can also develop type 1 diabetes, often triggered by infections or viruses. This form is called Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) and usually appears by age 30. The destruction of beta cells occurs gradually, making early detection crucial. Factors influencing type 1 diabetes include Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes, family history, diet, pesticides, infections, geographical location, and hygiene.
Diagnosis
For a person it is not easy to detect if you have type 1 diabetes because in an adult symptoms may take longer to show up. But, there are several ways to diagnose which includes :
1.Fasting plasma test(FPG)
The blood sample is taken in the morning after having no calorie intake for at least 8-12 hours. If a fasting blood sugar level is 126 mg/dL or higher diabetes is diagnosed. You may have water before this test.
2.Random glucose test
Randomly, at any time the blood sample can be taken which may be confirmed by additional tests. The symptoms of hyperglycemia or hyperglycemic crisis are likely to occur and diabetes is diagnosed at blood glucose of 200 mg/dL or higher.
3.Antibody test
High levels of antibodies are found against certain proteins in pancreas to help distinguish type 1 diabetes from other Diabetes types. It helps in early detection of type 1 Diabetes because people newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes commonly have this.
4.Glycated hemoglobin (A1c) test
For over two-three months the average glucose level is measured. If the hemoglobin is 6.5% or higher, diabetes is diagnosed.
5.Oral glucose tolerance test( OGTT)
After drinking 75 grams of glucose the blood sugar level is measured. If the blood sugar level is 200 mg/dL or higher after 2 hours, diabetes is diagnosed and tells your healthcare provider how your body processes glucose.
Treatment and Management
The main aim of its treatment is keep blood sugar levels normal and delay the disease from progressing. It may require insulin replacement. Adjustment in the diet regular blood glucose monitoring to achieve the goal. Treatment for type 1 diabetes includes :
- Insulin Intake – Since the body cannot produce insulin, regular injections or an insulin pump are essential.
- Blood Glucose Monitoring – Helps adjust diet, insulin doses, and physical activity.
- Diabetes Education and Self-Management – Understanding symptoms and risks is crucial for effective management.
- Physical Activity – Walking, jogging, and yoga improve insulin sensitivity and reduce stress.
- Balanced Diet – Lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats help regulate blood sugar. Avoiding sugary drinks prevents spikes.
Insulin deficiency and high blood sugar levels are caused because the immune system attacks the insulin producing cells, a lifelong Autoimmune condition in adults is known as Type 1 Diabetes. Early diagnosis is viral so as to prevent any further complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney damage and any such disease. It requires adequate management which may include insulin therapy,blood sugar monitoring and a balanced diet. Additionally, precautions must be taken before undergoing any medical procedure, including circumcision. You may consult a circumcision specialist as sometimes elevated blood sugar levels may lead to risk of infection and slow wound healing which may cause complications such as phimosis in the future. To avoid any such discomfort, circumcision may be recommended specially for men to manage these issues. Accordingly, a person with diabetes can maintain a healthy life and we’ll manage life with proper guidance and management.
