Understanding Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is also commonly known as juvenile diabetes because it is often diagnosed in childhood. It is less common than Type 2 diabetes and unlike Type 2 diabetes, cannot be prevented. When you have this disease, it means your body does not make enough insulin. Insulin is a natural hormone that converts glucose and starch into energy that your body needs for survival. If you or your child has recently been diagnosed with diabetes, it's important to learn as much as possible about this disease and how to manage it.

This type of diabetes can cause a variety of conditions that can be dangerous or even life-threatening. Hypoglycemia is one common condition in which blood sugar levels are too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, perspiration, nervousness, headache and dizziness. Then there's hyperglycemia, which means the blood sugar is too high. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include dry mouth, excessive thirst, frequent urination, a fruity smell to the breath and nausea. Treating these two side effects of diabetes are quite different from one another. Hypoglycemia is often treated with glucose pills, food or drink. Hyperglycemia, on the other hand, is usually managed via proper diet and exercise.

When left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can cause organ failure, coma and even death. This is why it is so important to know how to take care of yourself properly. Your doctor will educate you all about your condition and how its managed. You will need to keep diabetes testing and management supplies on hand at all times. This will include a good quality blood sugar testing kit, a urine testing kit for monitoring ketones and insulin delivery supplies. Insulin can be delivered via injection or even inhalation. Your doctor will recommend the best type of insulin delivery device for you. Make sure that your school, workplace, friends and family are all aware that you are diabetic and what to do in the case of an emergency.

Managing Type 1 diabetes means checking your blood sugar and insulin levels frequently and adjusting them as needed. You will also probably need to work with a dietician who specializes in diabetes management in order to devise the best diet plan possible. What, when and how much you eat can play a large role in effective diabetes management and good health. The good news is that although diabetes is a serious condition, it is still entirely possible to lead a healthy, normal life.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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