What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a condition where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use sugar from food for energy. Without enough insulin, the sugar builds up in the blood, which can cause serious health problems.
Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, which is often related to lifestyle, Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease, and it usually starts in childhood or early adulthood, but can develop at any age.
Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
People with Type 1 Diabetes may experience:
- Feeling very thirsty and needing to urinate often
- Unexpected weight loss or feeling very hungry
- Extreme tiredness
- Blurry vision
- Frequent infections or slow-healing cuts
- Nausea or vomiting
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
Managing Type 1 Diabetes is essential for staying healthy. It includes medical care, lifestyle changes, and emotional support.
- Insulin Therapy
Since the body no longer makes insulin, people with Type 1 Diabetes need to inject insulin every day. We help you find the right insulin regimen that fits your needs. You can get insulin through injections or an insulin pump.
- Monitoring Blood Sugar
Checking your blood sugar levels is important. You’ll need to check your levels multiple times a day to see how your body is responding to insulin and food. We also offer devices like Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM), which track your glucose levels throughout the day for more precise control.
- Diet and Nutrition
Eating well is a key part of managing diabetes. At KVT, our dietitians help create meal plans that keep your blood sugar steady while ensuring you get the right nutrition. We also teach you how different foods can affect your blood sugar and how to manage your diet.
- Exercise
Regular physical activity helps control blood sugar and keeps you healthy. We work with you to design an exercise plan that fits your lifestyle and helps improve your insulin sensitivity.
- Emotional Support
Living with Type 1 Diabetes can be emotionally tough. We provide counseling to help you manage stress, set goals, and stay positive about managing your health.
Preventing Complications
If not controlled properly, Type 1 Diabetes can lead to complications like heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage. At KVT, we take steps to prevent these issues through regular check-ups, screenings, and education on how to manage your condition.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact KVT Multispecialty Hospital today!
