Type 1 Diabetes:Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Shruthi R , Endocrinologist

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Type 1 Diabetes, sometimes called Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) or Juvenile Diabetes, is a long-term condition where the body's immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Without insulin, the body cannot use glucose (sugar) for energy properly, which causes high blood sugar levels.

This condition can appear at any age but is most often diagnosed in children and young adults. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, it is not caused by diet or lifestyle. People with Type 1 Diabetes need insulin treatment throughout their lives to stay healthy.

Common features of Type 1 Diabetes include:

• The body is unable to produce enough insulin.
• Blood sugar levels become elevated, causing symptoms such as thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
• It is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body mistakenly attacks its own cells.

Early detection is important to manage blood sugar effectively and prevent complications.

Difference Between Type 1 And 2 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body makes little or no insulin and daily insulin is needed to survive. It usually starts in childhood or young adulthood and is not linked to lifestyle factors.

Type 2 Diabetes, on the other hand, develops when the body cannot use insulin properly (insulin resistance) or does not make enough insulin. It is more common in adults, though children can also develop it. Type 2 is often linked to lifestyle factors such as being overweight, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise, but genetics also play a role. Treatment may include lifestyle changes oral medicines, and sometimes insulin.

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Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

The symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes often appear suddenly and can be severe. A lack of insulin primarily causes high blood sugar levels. Early recognition is essential to prevent complications.

Common symptoms include:

• Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred Vision
• Frequent Infections
• Slow-Healing Wounds
• Extreme Hunger
• Irritability
• Dry Skin
• Numbness or Tingling

Other Symptoms

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Fruity-smelling breath is a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, a medical emergency

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Type 1 Diabetes Causes

The exact cause of Type 1 Diabetes is not fully understood, but several factors are known to contribute:

Autoimmune Response

The immune system mistakenly targets the beta cells in the pancreas, gradually destroying them. This is why Type 1 Diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease.

Genetic Factors

Certain genes can increase the risk of developing Type 1 Diabetes. Having a family member with the condition raises your likelihood, although most people diagnosed do not have a close relative with it.

Environmental Triggers

Some environmental factors may trigger the autoimmune response in people who are genetically predisposed. Possible triggers include.

• Viral infections, e.g., enteroviruses
• Early exposure to certain foods or chemicals is still under research

Other Factors

• Some research suggests that stress or rapid growth periods may play a minor role in triggering the onset.
• Type 1 Diabetes is not caused by diet, obesity or lifestyle choices, which is an important distinction from Type 2 Diabetes.

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Variants of Type 1 Diabetes

While Type 1 Diabetes is commonly considered a single condition, it can present in different ways. Understanding the variants helps in diagnosis and management.

Classic Type 1 Diabetes (Rapid-Onset)

• This is the most common form, often diagnosed in children and teenagers.
• Symptoms appear suddenly and can progress quickly over weeks.
• Patients typically require immediate insulin therapy to manage blood sugar levels.

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

• Sometimes called Type 1.5 Diabetes, LADA develops in adults.
• The autoimmune attack is slower than classic Type 1, so symptoms may appear radually.
• Patients may initially manage with oral medications but usually need insulin within a few months or years.

Other Rare Variants

• There are less common forms of Type 1 Diabetes that may have unique presentations, such as neonatal diabetes diagnosed in the first six months of life.
• These variants are rare and often require specialized care.

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When to See a Doctor for Type 1 Diabetes?

You should see a doctor if you notice:

• Feeling very thirsty or peeing a lot
• Sudden weight loss without trying
• Feeling very tired or weak
• Blurry vision
• Shakiness, sweating, dizziness or fast heartbeat
• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or fruity-smelling breath

Even if you feel okay, regular checkups are important to keep blood sugar under control and prevent problems.

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Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes

Correct diagnosis is essential for managing Type 1 Diabetes effectively. Doctors use a combination of medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests to confirm the condition.

Blood Sugar Tests

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test: It measures blood glucose after an overnight fast. High levels may indicate diabetes.
• Random Blood Sugar Test: Measures glucose at any time of the day; high readings with symptoms can suggest diabetes.

HbA1c Test

• The HbA1c test shows the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
• An elevated HbA1c confirms long-term high blood sugar, supporting the diagnosis.

Autoantibody Tests

• Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition, so doctors often test for antibodies that attack the pancreas.
• Common tests include GAD antibodies, IA-2 antibodies and insulin autoantibodies.
• Positive results confirm that the body's immune system is destroying insulin-producing cells.

C-Peptide Test

• Measures the amount of insulin the pancreas is producing. Low levels suggest insufficient insulin production, confirming Type 1 Diabetes.

Additional Tests

• In some cases, urine tests may be done to check for glucose or ketones.
• Doctors may also evaluate for other autoimmune conditions, as people with Type 1 Diabetes are at higher risk for thyroid or celiac disorders.

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Type 1 Diabetes Treatment

Type 1 Diabetes cannot be cured, but can be managed with insulin and healthy habits. The goal is to keep blood sugar under control and prevent complications.

• Insulin Therapy: Lifelong insulin through injections or pumps.
• Monitoring: Regular checks with a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
• Diet: Balanced meals with controlled carbs; avoid excess sugar and processed foods.
• Exercise: Regular activity helps control sugar but check levels before and after.
• Managing Sugar Levels: Treat low sugar with glucose tablets or juice; manage high sugar with insulin and hydration.
• Check-ups: Regular doctor visits, eye exams, kidney tests, and foot care.

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Type 1 Diabetes Complications

If Type 1 Diabetes is not managed well, high blood sugar can cause short-term and long-term problems.

Short-Term Complications

• Hypoglycemia: Can make you feel shaky, sweaty, dizzy or faint.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A Serious condition with nausea, vomiting, fruity-smelling breath and fast breathing. Needs emergency care.

Long-Term Complications

• Heart Problems
• Kidney Damage
• Nerve Damage
• Eye Problems
• Foot Issues

Other Risks

• More frequent infections
• Gastroparesis
• Mental Health
• Skin and gum problems
• Stress and anxiety from managing a chronic condition
• Pregnancy Complications

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How Can I Prevent Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 Diabetes cannot be completely prevented because it is an autoimmune condition. However, there are ways to reduce risks and manage the condition effectively:

• Early Detection
• Healthy Lifestyle
• Blood Sugar Monitoring
• Regular Medical Checkups
• Education and Awareness

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Conclusion

Type 1 Diabetes is a lifelong condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin. With proper treatment, blood sugar monitoring, healthy lifestyle and regular medical checkups, people with Type 1 Diabetes can live healthy and active lives. Early detection and careful management help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

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