Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes accounts for five to ten percent of
diabetes cases in the United States. A person who is
diagnosed with type 1 diabetes must receive insulin shots
daily in order to live.
Scientists are not exactly sure why the body attacks the
immune system and the production of insulin, but it is
believed that both genetics and viruses are involved.
Type 1 diabetes is most commonly found in children and
young adults, but can appear at any age and symptoms can
develop over a short period of time. Symptoms include
increased thirst and urination, extreme fatigue, weight
loss and constant hunger.
If a person with type 1 diabetes is not diagnosed and
treated with insulin, there is a risk of that person
slipping into a diabetic coma that may prove life
threatening.
The key when first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes is to arm
yourself with information. Being diagnosed is not the end
of the world. In fact, most people go on to live normal,
healthy lives as long as they stay aware of their condition
and continue to treat it.
After being diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to
maintain your general health paying special attention to
the care you give your eyes, feet and skin as well as your
heart and oral health.
This basic care could prevent complications brought on by
diabetes later in life. Other recommendations are to stop
smoking and reduce the amount of alcohol you consume.