Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease of which affects metabolism, particularly that of the glucose in our blood. Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it is more frequently encountered by children and young adults, which is why it’s commonly called juvenile diabetes. Also, the patients suffering from type 1 diabetes require a rigorous observation of the blood sugar levels. A form of type 1 diabetes is latent diabetes which is sometimes mistaken for type 2 diabetes, because it occurs in later ages. Type 1 diabetes occurs in 5-10 percent of total cases of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes occurs as a consequence of the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas, which should produce insulin. Heredity plays a crucial part in the manifestation of diabetes. However, a large number of patients do not have a family history of diabetes. That’s why experts claim that, heredity and genetic structure aside, certain environment factors are essential in the occurrence of diabetes. Sometimes, environment factors such as infectious agents favour the occurrence of diabetes. The link between the diabetes onset and the vaccination against the infection with haemophilus influenza type b hasn’t been proven, although a hypothesis has been made.

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes are quickly seen, in a matter of weeks or even days and are determined by the high level of the glucose in blood. The rate at which the beta cells are destroyed varies. Children are rapidly diagnosed because beta cells are destroyed much faster, while in adults the destruction occurs gradually, therefore causing the disease to appear slower. Sometimes, symptoms appear after a viral infection. If the medical examination is delayed, due to the massive destruction of beta cells, the insulin shortage causes hyperglycaemia. The organism uses protein and lipids to produce energy. Ketone bodies and fatty acids appear in excess and install one of the most severe complications of type 1 diabetes, which requires emergency intervention. In some cases, for a short period (a few weeks or months), the pancreas still produces insulin – this period is called the “honeymoon” and there is no need to inject insulin. After this period ends, insulin injections are mandatory.

Patients suffering from type 1 diabetes will respect a strict personal treatment, which includes administration of insulin, proper diet, daily monitoring of blood sugar levels and a daily exercise routine. Following the treatment and communication with the doctor can help prevent serious complications and offer the patient a feeling of safety, being in control of the disease and a positive state of mind.