Understanding Type 1 Diabetes

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes

WHAT IS TYPE 1 DIABETES?

Type 1 diabetes is one of three major types of diabetes. It is a chronic condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. 

Unlike type 2 diabetes, which is linked to lifestyle factors, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This type of diabetes can develop at any age, but it typically manifests in childhood or adolescence.

WHAT CAUSES TYPE 1 DIABETES?

The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but doctors believe it to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with a family history of type 1 diabetes are at higher risk, and certain viral infections may also trigger the onset of the disease. Other factors, such as diet and exposure to certain viruses during childhood, may also aggravate the development of the condition​.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 1 DIABETES?

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes can develop rapidly over a few weeks and include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to excrete excess glucose, leading to dehydration and increased thirst.
• Extreme hunger: Without insulin, the body cannot use glucose for energy, leading to intense hunger.
• Weight loss: Despite eating more, individuals may lose weight as the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy.
• Fatigue: Lack of insulin means cells cannot absorb glucose, leading to feelings of fatigue and weakness.
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of the eyes, affecting the ability to focus.
• Slow-healing sores: High blood sugar levels can damage the body’s natural healing process, leading to sores and wounds healing much slower than normal. 
• Frequent infections: Infections become more frequent as the body’s ability to fight germs is weakened. 

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

HOW IS TYPE 1 DIABETES DIAGNOSED?

Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests that measure blood sugar levels. The HbA1c test, which shows the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months, is commonly used. A fasting blood sugar test and a random blood sugar test can also aid in diagnosis. Additionally, the presence of autoantibodies in the blood can help differentiate type 1 diabetes from other types​​.

CAN TYPE 1 DIABETES BE TREATED?

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Type 1 diabetes and there is no way to completely get rid of it. However, with proper management, 

HOW CAN TYPE 1 DIABETES BE MANAGED?

Lifelong insulin therapy and regular monitoring are needed to manage Type 1 diabetes. 

As the body is unable to produce insulin on its own, one would need to administer insulin manually in order to help keep blood sugar levels under control and prevent diabetes complications. There are various methods to administer insulin, including injections and insulin pumps. 

Blood sugar levels also need to be monitored regularly to ensure they remain within the target range. This is to prevent diabetes complications, such as serious feet and eye problems. 

Alongside insulin therapy, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise are also crucial in managing the disease. Dietary management focuses on regulating carbohydrate intake to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels​​.

WHAT COMPLICATIONS CAN OCCUR WHEN TYPE 1 DIABETES GOES OUT OF CONTROL?

Without proper management, type 1 diabetes can lead to major acute complications, like hypoglycemia and serious hyperglycemia. 

Hypoglycemia occurs when the blood sugar levels drop below the healthy range. When this happens, one would typically experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, slurred speech, and numbness. When the body is starved of blood glucose for too long, it may lead to the body going into a seizure, then possibly falling into a coma.

Hyperglycemia, on the other hand, occurs when the body’s blood sugar levels are too high. This would lead to issues such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, as well as an increased risk of skin and mouth infections. 

In more severe cases, this can also lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially fatal complication that can occur when the body is forced to break down fat for energy due to not being able to receive enough glucose it needs for energy. This happens when the body does not have sufficient insulin to use glucose, the body’s normal source of energy. When the body breaks down fat to produce energy, it also creates ketones; these chemicals increase the acidity levels of the blood when they build up within the body, which can poison the body. 

As diabetic ketoacidosis is possibly life-threatening, it is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. One is advised to seek medical help immediately when this occurs. 

ADVANCES IN TREATMENT

Research is ongoing to find better treatments and potentially a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Researchers are currently exploring the potential of pancreatic islet transplantation and artificial pancreas systems​​.

In the meantime, advances in diabetes management technology, like the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and insulin pump, have also improved the quality of life for many individuals suffering from Type 1 diabetes. 

Managing type 1 diabetes can be challenging, but with the right tools, it becomes more manageable. With proper diabetes management, one can lead a normal life with minimal disruptions. 

As a world-class medical equipment manufacturer, BUZUD offers a range of innovative diabetes management products designed to help you monitor and control your blood sugar levels effectively. With the BUZUD Continuous Monitoring System, one can monitor their blood glucose level 24/7, ensuring that they will be alerted when any potential issues arise. Beyond that, the BUZUD Continuous Monitoring System also reduces the discomfort of diabetes management; With just a prick of a soft needle, the user will be able to monitor and track their blood glucose levels painlessly for a continuous 14 days. 

Empower yourself today to take control of your diabetes and live a healthier, more balanced life. Explore BUZUD’s diabetes management products here, and discover how our cutting-edge technology can support your journey towards better health.

DISCLAIMER

All information presented herein serves as a general guideline, and is not intended as dispensing any medical advice(s). User(s) should consult their doctor to seek further clarification for any doubt. It is recommended to refer to this guide with sole discretion, thereby we shall not be held responsible for any part of the information as presented.

REimagined Healthcare with BUZUD Care Experience at:

585 North Bridge Road, #01-02 Raffles Hospital, Singapore 188770

Call: +65 6518 9959 or Email: customercare@BUZUD.com