Type 1 Diabetes Treatment in Delhi, India

Understanding the early signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes is essential for timely detection and care.

• Frequent urination: Frequent urination is an early indicator of type 1 diabetes. When blood sugar levels rise, the kidneys work to filter out and remove the extra glucose, leading to increased urination.
• Excessive thirst: Alongside frequent urination, individuals often experience excessive thirst. This is because the body loses more water through urination, prompting a need for increased fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
• Unintended weight loss: Despite eating more to compensate for hunger, individuals with type 1 diabetes might experience unintended weight loss. This happens because the body cannot use glucose for energy without insulin and starts breaking down fat and muscle instead.
• Extreme hunger: Even after eating, people with type 1 diabetes often feel extreme hunger. The body's cells are starved of energy due to the lack of insulin, which triggers a constant feeling of hunger.
• Fatigue and weakness: Insufficient insulin means that the body's cells cannot access glucose for energy. This results in persistent fatigue and weakness, affecting daily activities and overall well-being.
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the eye's lens, leading to blurred vision. This symptom can fluctuate with changes in blood sugar levels.
• Irritability and mood changes: Blood sugar imbalances can lead to irritability and mood changes. The lack of glucose in the brain affects mood and cognitive functions, causing irritability and other emotional changes.
• Slow-healing sores: Wounds and sores that take longer to heal can be a sign of type 1 diabetes. High blood sugar levels impair the body's natural healing processes, slowing recovery.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic factors, an autoimmune response, and environmental triggers such as viral infections.

• Genetic factors: Genetics play a major role in developing type 1 diabetes. Individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk. Certain genetic factors are linked to a higher probability of developing type 1 diabetes.
• Autoimmune response: The leading cause of type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune reaction, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact cause of this response remains unclear but may involve genetic and environmental factors.
• Environmental triggers: Environmental factors such as viral infections are believed to play a role in triggering type 1 diabetes. Certain viruses might initiate the autoimmune process in genetically predisposed individuals.

Type 1 diabetes can lead to various serious health complications if not managed properly.

• Cardiovascular disease: Having type 1 diabetes raises the chances of developing cardiovascular issues like strokes and heart attacks. 
• Nerve damage: Chronic high blood sugar can result in nerve damage, especially in the legs and feet. This condition, called diabetic neuropathy, can lead to pain, tingling, and decreased sensation.
• Kidney damage: Type 1 diabetes can affect kidney function, leading to diabetic nephropathy. If not managed properly, this condition could result in kidney failure.
• Eye complications: High blood sugar levels can harm the blood vessels in the eyes, resulting in issues like diabetic retinopathy, which may lead to loss of vision if left untreated.
• Skin conditions: Individuals with type 1 diabetes are more prone to skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections. Proper skin care and blood sugar management are essential to preventing these issues.

Type 1 diabetes can lead to several acute and long-term complications.

• Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common complication of type 1 diabetes. It can occur due to excessive insulin, skipped meals, or strenuous exercise. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and, if severe, loss of consciousness.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe issue that arises when the body begins to break down fats for energy because of insufficient insulin levels. This process produces ketones, leading to high blood acidity. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fruity-smelling breath.
• Long-term complications: Proper control of blood sugar levels is essential to prevent long-term complications linked to type 1 diabetes, such as cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems.

Effective management of type 1 diabetes involves addressing potential complications and following a comprehensive treatment plan to maintain optimal health and prevent long-term issues.

• Insulin therapy: Proper management of type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy. Various types of insulin, such as rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting, are available. The most suitable insulin regimen differs for each person.
• Blood sugar monitoring: It is essential to regularly monitor blood sugar levels in order to maintain them at optimal levels. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and blood glucose metres are useful tools for tracking blood sugar levels throughout the day.
• Healthy eating: A balanced diet is important for managing type 1 diabetes. Emphasise whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Carbohydrate counting helps manage blood sugar levels.
• Physical activity: Engaging in physical activity can enhance insulin sensitivity and promote better overall health. Strive to get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
• Education and support: Education about type 1 diabetes management is vital. Healthcare professionals, diabetes specialists, and community organisations provide important assistance and encouragement for people and their loved ones.

Type 1 diabetes requires careful management to maintain blood sugar levels and prevent complications. People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can lead a healthy and satisfying life by educating themselves on the symptoms, causes, and treatment choices that are available.

What is the best treatment for type 1 diabetes?

Insulin therapy is considered the most effective treatment for type 1 diabetes, as it utilises various types of insulin to control blood sugar levels effectively.

Can type 1 diabetics live a long life?

Yes, by effectively managing and taking care of themselves, people with type 1 diabetes can live a long and healthy life.

Can you fully recover from type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured at the moment, but it can be well controlled with insulin treatment and lifestyle changes.

What foods are good for type 1 diabetes?

Whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and various fruits and vegetables are good foods for type 1 diabetes. Carbohydrate counting is also essential.

Is it possible for someone with type 1 diabetes to survive without insulin? 

No, individuals with type 1 diabetes cannot live without insulin, as their bodies cannot produce it naturally. Insulin therapy is necessary to manage blood sugar levels.

Reviewed By Dr Jayant Kelwade Consultant - Endocrinology & Thyroid Specialist on 16 Aug 2024.