Individuals with diabetes either do not make adequate amounts of insulin, or their cells are resistant to insulin, which can lead to high glucose levels circulating in the blood. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is relatively rare, occurring in about 5–10% of individuals who have diabetes. The condition is believed to result from an autoimmune reaction that attacks the body’s ability to produce insulin. The autoimmune reaction attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that synthesize insulin. Type 1 diabetes was once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes because it occurred often in early childhood, and individuals required insulin injections for survival. However, Type 1 can occur at any age, and symptoms typically develop quickly.
Type 1 diabetes is considered a lifelong condition, and its cause or causes are not clear. The body’s immune system, certain viruses, and genetics may play roles. Having a family member with diabetes can increase an individual’s probability of obtaining the disease. Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes usually occur quickly and include increased thirst and hunger, more frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, mood changes, feelings of weakness and fatigue, and blurred vision.
Individuals with Type 1 diabetes typically require daily insulin injections, often several times daily, and need blood glucose monitoring throughout the day, as well as eating a balanced special diabetic diet and performing other healthy lifestyle changes.
