Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed during childhood, however, it can also be diagnosed during later stages of life. In type 1 diabetes the pancreas does not make any insulin. This is why people with type 1 diabetes MUST take insulin medication every day.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed during childhood, however, it can also be diagnosed during later stages of life.

In type 1 diabetes the pancreas does not make any insulin. This is why people with type 1 diabetes MUST take insulin medication every day.
There is no cure for type 1 diabetes.
 
Type 1: Insulin dependent diabetes (complete lack of insulin). 5% - 15% of people with diabetes.
Cause: Not well known, genetic, autoimmune and environmental.
Symptoms: Excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, weakness and fatigue, irritability.
Effect: Usually first diagnosed in children and young adults.
Treatment: Daily insulin injections.

What happens in type 1 Diabetes?
Because the pancreas produces little or no insulin in type 1 diabetes, the key (insulin) is defective or not there at all. This means that the doors on the cells cannot be opened to let the blood glucose/sugar enter.
In Type 1 Diabetes, there is no insulin and no 'key' to let glucose enter the cells
 
Ask yourself the following question:
Q: Where is this blood sugar/glucose building up?
The answer is:
A: It builds up in blood vessels.
Despite continuous research type 1 diabetes has no cure, though it can be managed with proper treatment. If type 1 diabetes is treated effectively and properly, patients can expect to live longer and healthier lives than in the past.
 
Images: What is the difference between Type1 and Type 2 diabetes?

 

References:


  1. Rizwana Kousar 2010. What is Diabetes? Diabetes and Your Community Education Series, Melbourne. © Australian Community Centre for Diabetes (ACCD).

More Information:

Did you know?

Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes

Reality: This myth is false. Eating sugar is not the cause of the onset of diabetes. This disease is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors (such as diet). A diet high in fat and sugar may cause somebody to become overweight. Being overweight may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Anybody who has a family history of diabetes should eat a healthy and balanced diet and exercise regularly.

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