What is Type 1 Diabetes?

When a person has Type 1 Diabetes, the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach, stops making the hormone insulin. Without insulin the body’s cells cannot turn glucose (sugar) into energy. As a result, the body burns its own fats as a substitute. Unless treated with daily injections of insulin, people with Type 1 diabetes accumulate dangerous chemical substances in their blood from the burning of fats. A build up of these substances is potentially life threatening if not treated. Typically, the onset of Type 1 Diabetes occurs in people under 30 years, but can occur at any age. About 10-15% of all cases of diabetes are Type 1. At this stage nothing can be done to prevent or cure Type 1 Diabetes.

What is the cause?

The cause of Type 1 diabetes is still unknown, however, it has been linked to family history and genetics. Unfortunately, it cannot be prevented. It has nothing to do with lifestyle. Once diagnosed, it is important that a healthy lifestyle is maintained to help manage Type 1 diabetes.

What are the symptoms?

Some of the symptoms include

• Being excessively thirsty
• Passing more urine
• Feeling tired and lethargic
• Always feeling hungry
• Having cuts that heal slowly
• Itching, skin infections
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
• Mood swings
• Headaches
• Feeling dizzy
• Leg cramps