An individual is said to have type 1 diabetes when his/her immune (body defense) system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which are known to control the levels of blood sugar.
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is still unknown1.
However, a few factors are considered to be associated with type 1 diabetes:
Genetics:
Family history:
Age:
This condition is not due to a poor lifestyle (such as irregular eating habits, lack of exercise, improper sleep timings, and a highly stressful life), but it might get aggravated if such a lifestyle continues for a long period2. It can neither be prevented nor cured; however, it can be well maintained with insulin, medications, and lifestyle modifications2.
Also, type 1 diabetes is considered an autoimmune disorder, wherein the body’s own defense system (immunity) starts attacking the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. However, it’s interesting to note that even in this case, the exact trigger for this autoimmunity is unknown3.
The probable triggers for this autoimmunity are 3:
Compared with adults, the symptoms of type 1 diabetes may show a rapid progression, especially over a few days or weeks.
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes include2:
Excessive
thirst
Frequent
urination
Tiredness and
lethargy
Increased
appetite
Slow healing
wounds
Blurred
vision
Skin infections associated with increased itching
Unexplained
weight loss
Mood swings
Headache
Dizziness
Leg cramps
An individual with type 1 diabetes needs to be very watchful about his/her symptoms4.
Urgent medical attention should be sought if the symptoms of diabetes appear in combination with the following symptoms:
These symptoms could be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous medical emergency associated with type 1 diabetes. It can be life-threatening if medical treatment is not provided immediately.