What Is Type 1 Diabetes?
What Is Type 1 Diabetes? Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the beta cells in the pancreas. The pancreas therefore can no longer produce insulin. Without insulin the body is unable to absorb energy from food (sugar). Insulin injections are needed everyday to sustain life and to help keep blood glucose levels near a normal range. However, insulin is not the cure for Type 1 Diabetes. It only helps keep those with type 1 diabetes alive until a cure is found.
What Is Type 1 Diabetes Caused By?
There is no known exact cause for Type 1 Diabetes but it’s believed that genes and environmental factors (like a virus) help trigger the onset. Type 1 Diabetes is not caused by diet or lifestyle. Type 1 Diabetes is not a childhood disease. It can affect anyone, at any age, whether or not there is a family history. Symptoms can come on suddenly and it’s important to know the signs to look out for as general knowledge.
SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 1 DIABETES here.
How Is Type 1 Diabetes Managed:
Type 1 Diabetes is managed by taking several injections per day (by syringe or insulin pump), eating a well-balanced diet, staying active, and keeping blood glucose levels stable. Type 1 Diabetes is a constant battle because the body’s needs are always changing. People with Type 1 Diabetes must consult with an endocrinologist and receive quarterly A1C tests to keep a close eye on management. People with diabetes may need to seek help from a diabetes educator, dietician, nutritionist, and/or support counseling in order to manage their diabetes.
What Is It Like To Have Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes is a difficult and challenging disease. Everyday there is a lot that goes into managing, staying alive, and trying to prevent complications. Type 1 Diabetes is life-threatening but with proper management a person with type 1 diabetes can live a full, healthy long life.
Posts To Help Get a Better Understanding From People With Diabetes:
- What It’s Like To Live With Type 1 Diabetes
- What Living With Diabetes Feels Like
- This Is What Type 1 Diabetics Want You To Know
- What I Want Others To Understand About Diabetes
- Things Only a Person With Diabetes Would Understand
Posts From Parents Who Help Manage Their Child’s Diabetes:
- What I’ve Learned From My Child Who Battles Type 1 Diabetes
- Mother of a Type 1 Diabetic (My Mother’s Perspective)
- I’m a D-Mom Battling Type 1 Diabetes Alongside My Hero
- What It’s Really Like To Have a Child With Type 1 Diabetes
- Mother Shares What It’s Like To Battle Type 1 Diabetes Alongside Her Son
Videos To Create Awareness of Type 1 Diabetes:
Includes: (This Is Our Journey, World Diabetes Day: This Is Our Fight, What Is Type 1 Diabetes?, What If?)
Share Your Story To Raise Awareness and Inspire Others here.
