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What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Published:
9-August-2005

Type 1 diabetes is more severe than type 2 diabetes; it usually strikes during childhood:

  • The beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin are gradually destroyed.
  • Without insulin to transfer glucose into your child's cells, their blood glucose levels become too high. This condition is called hyperglycemia.
  • Because your child's body cannot utilize the sugar, it spills over into the urine and is lost when they go to the bathroom.
  • Some of the symptoms are sudden weight loss, excessive hunger, excessive thirst, or weakness. Your child is literally starving.
  • Your child becomes totally dependent on insulin.

Type 1 diabetes is a progressive autoimmune disease, where the beta cells, in the pancreas, that produce insulin are slowly destroyed by the body's own immune system. Nobody knows what first starts this process, but research suggests that both a genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as a viral infection are most likely involved.

Symptoms

The process that destroys the insulin-producing cells can take a long time. Once insulin production ceases, type 1 diabetes usually shows up suddenly and progresses very fast. Some of the warning signs of type 1 diabetes are:

  • Frequent urination (your child may start to wet the bed).
  • Unusual thirst.
  • Extreme hunger.
  • Sudden, sometimes dramatic, weight loss.
  • Weakness.
  • Extreme fatigue.
  • Blurred vision or other changes in eyesight.
  • Irritability.
  • Nausea and vomiting (if diabetes related, get your child to the emergency room).
  • Restlessness
  • Sudden drop in school performance.
  • In very severe cases a coma may be your first and only sign.

Blood Glucose Level Goals for Children with Diabetes

Normal Goal

Blood glucose levels before meals Less than 110 mg/dL 90-130 mg/dL

Bedtime blood glucose levels Less than 120 mg/dL 110-150 mg/dL

HbA1c 4% to 6% Less than 7%

This information is provided for information purposes only. Only your doctor or other health care professional can make a proper diagnosis. As with all medical conditions, consult your doctor if you have any questions.

Adapted from information provided by A.D.A.M. Inc.