Written by Marlena Hughes, RN; Central GA District
In Diabetes Type 1, also known as Insulin-Dependent Diabetes, the body attacks and destroys his/her own insulin-producing cells (pancreatic beta cells). Normally the body’s immune system fights off foreign invaders like viruses or bacteria, but for some unknown cause, the immune system attacks the body. Without the production of insulin, the body has to depend on some other source, usually external, to help it breakdown the sugar or glucose in the blood and help it move to the cells.
Since insulin is necessary to sustain life, the missing insulin has to be replaced. The replacement insulin is administered by injection using a syringe or an insulin pump, which delivers the insulin under the skin. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to dehydration, diabetic ketoacidosis, damage to nerves and small blood vessels in the eyes, kidneys, and heart. Hardening of the arteries can occur, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. It’s important to monitor and manage the blood sugar to prevent life-threatening conditions.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. Only 5% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease. Most people develop this type of diabetes before the age of 40. Although this type of diabetes affect children, it can also develop after the age of 40, but is extremely rare. African-Americans are the most affected.
Children and young adults affected by type 1 diabetes are still able to live young, active lives. It’s important to create a plan to help them manage the condition to stay healthy and active.
In general, those with Type 1 Diabetes should:
- take insulin as prescribed
- eat a healthy, balanced diet, paying special attention to the amount of carbohydrates in each meal and the diabetes meal plan
- monitor blood sugar levels several times a day
- get regular physical activity
Sources:
http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/type-1/?loc=db-slabnav#sthash.Ab8gNwWd.dpuf
http://www.transplant.surgery.ucsf.edu/conditions--procedures/type-1-diabetes.aspx
http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/endocrine/treating_type1.html