Type 1 Diabetes
A serious and life-long condition, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune
disease that confuses the body's own immune system into attacking
the pancreas, destroying the insulin-producing beta cells. As a
result, the pancreas is unable to produce enough... More
A serious and life-long condition, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that confuses the body's own immune system into attacking the pancreas, destroying the insulin-producing beta cells. As a result, the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate glucose levels, the main source of fuel for the body.
Most of the food that we eat is turned into glucose, or sugar, which our bodies use for energy.
A person who has Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily. The cause of Type 1 diabetes could be influenced by environmental factors; such as an unidentified virus that prompts the immune system to attack the pancreas in some genetically predisposed people.
Other types of diabetes are Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Less
Recently Answered
- Q How is type 1 diabetes diagnosed?
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The most common way to diagnose diabetes in children and non-pregnant adults is through blood tests. These tests measure milligrams of blood sugar per deciliter, which is expressed by mg/dL. One test, the fasting blood glucose test, is usually performed... More
Type 1 diabetes can be diagnosed based on: - a blood glucose level of 200 mg/dl or above at any time of the day without regard to the time of the last meal - a blood glucose level of 126 mg/dl or above after no food or drink for at least 8 hours More
Some people-especially children, teenagers and young adults-are not diagnosed with type 1 diabetes until they are admitted to a hospital for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This life-threatening condition occurs when ketones, or fatty acids, are... More
- Q Can type 1 diabetes be prevented?
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There is currently no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes. Studies and clinical trials are underway to help determine the cause and possible prevention of type 1 diabetes. Early diagnosis and intensive insulin therapy helps prevent the severity of... More
- Q How do I manage my type 1 diabetes on a daily basis?
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Managing type 1 diabetes is a lifelong commitment, but you'll be able to cope more effectively by taking one day at a time. You'll need to take insulin and monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as part of your daily treatment. You'll also need to... More
People who have type 1 diabetes need to work closely with their doctors to find the right balance of diet, insulin and exercise to keep their blood sugar levels within a target range. That combination will vary over time, especially for children.... More
- Q When should I call my doctor if I have type 1 diabetes?
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Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you are: Unconscious or you suddenly become very sleepy or confused. You may have low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia. Emergency Care for Low Blood Sugar Sleepy, confused, breathing very fast... More
- Q What is the "honeymoon phase" after a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes?
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The honeymoon period refers to the time period shortly after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when the pancreas is able to produce some insulin. Usually your child would need less insulin during this time. More
- Q How common is juvenile diabetes?
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Approximately one of every 400 to 500 kids has diabetes. While roughly 13,000 children are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes each year, the numbers for type 2 diabetes are less clear. However, the Centers for Disease Control believe that with the increasing... More
Every day in the United States, nearly 80 people are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes. Nearly half of the individuals diagnosed each year are children. More
