Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body cannot regulate blood sugar (glucose) properly. This leads to high blood sugar levels and can cause serious health problems if not managed.

Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults, but it can occur at any age.

Causes of Type 1 Diabetes

• Autoimmune reaction – the body mistakenly attacks its own pancreas
• Genetic factors – family history can increase risk
• Environmental triggers – viruses or other triggers may play a role
• Unlike type 2 diabetes, it is not caused by diet or lifestyle

Symptoms

• Frequent urination
• Extreme thirst and dry mouth
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue or weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Mood changes or irritability
• Bedwetting in children who previously stayed dry

Diagnosis

• Fasting blood sugar test
• Random blood sugar test
• HbA1c test – shows average blood sugar over 2–3 months
• Autoantibody tests – help confirm type 1 diabetes
• C-peptide test – measures insulin production

Treatment

There is no cure for type 1 diabetes, but it can be managed with:

• Insulin therapy (via injections or insulin pump)
• Regular blood sugar monitoring
• Healthy diet and carbohydrate counting
• Physical activity to help control blood sugar
• Ongoing medical checkups and diabetes education

Complications If Untreated

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) – a medical emergency
• Eye damage (retinopathy)
• Kidney damage (nephropathy)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Heart disease and stroke
• Poor circulation and wound healing

Living with Type 1 Diabetes

• Requires lifelong insulin use
• Daily monitoring and planning are essential
• With good control, people with type 1 diabetes can live long, healthy lives