Introduction
One of the most common misconceptions about type 1 diabetes (T1D) is sugar! Not only can type 1 diabetics eat sugar - but they NEED sugar to survive. Contrary to popular belief, T1D is not caused by sugar consumption.
In the UK, more than 5.6 million people are estimated to be living with diabetes. Of these, around 560,000 (10%) have type 1 diabetes, which is much less common than type 2 diabetes. Raising awareness and breaking stereotypes surrounding T1D is crucial for early detection, which can help prevent severe complications.
Managing T1D requires regular insulin administration and continuous blood sugar monitoring, often through finger pricks or glucose sensors. This article aims to delve deeper into T1D, exploring its causes, symptoms, and treatments, while addressing common misconceptions.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is one of the two main types of diabetes, alongside type 2 diabetes. While both conditions affect blood sugar regulation, T1D is much less common, accounting for only 10% of all diabetes cases, with type 2 making up the remaining 90%.
A common stereotype is that type 1 diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar. This assumption likely stems from the causes of type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to poor diet, lack of exercise, and excess sugar consumption. However, T1D is fundamentally different—it is an autoimmune disease. In T1D, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreatic β-cells responsible for producing insulin. As a result, individuals with T1D produce no insulin at all.
In contrast, people with type 2 diabetes can produce insulin but gradually become resistant to its effects. Insulin is essential for converting glucose (a type of sugar) into energy for the body to function. Without sufficient insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.
The exact causes of T1D remain unclear. While the immune system’s role in attacking β-cells is well-documented, the trigger for this process is not fully understood. Researchers believe genetics play a significant role, alongside potential environmental factors such as viral infections. Age and family history are also known risk factors.
Symptoms and Treatments
Symptoms
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes (T1D) are often similar to those of type 2 diabetes, which can make initial diagnosis challenging for doctors. These symptoms are primarily caused by hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and include:
Excessive thirst
Frequent urination
Bed-wetting in children who previously didn't wet the bed
Increased hunger
Weight loss without actively trying
Blurred vision
Fatigue and weakness
To diagnose T1D, a general practitioner (GP) may perform a finger prick test to measure blood glucose levels. A urine test might also be conducted to check for the presence of ketones, which indicate that the body is breaking down fat for energy due to a lack of insulin. A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher is a strong indicator of diabetes.
Treatment
Although there is no cure for T1D, effective treatments allow individuals to live active and fulfilling lives. The primary goal of treatment is to maintain blood glucose levels within a healthy range, typically between 70–100 mg/dL.
Key components of T1D management include:
Insulin therapy: Insulin injections or insulin pumps are essential to replace the insulin the body can no longer produce.
Blood glucose monitoring: Regular finger prick tests or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are used to track blood sugar levels and adjust treatment accordingly.
Carbohydrate counting: Tracking carbohydrate intake is crucial for determining the correct insulin dose required for meals.
Lifestyle management: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet play important roles in controlling blood sugar levels and overall health.
Preventing extreme blood sugar fluctuations is a critical aspect of treatment:
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, and confusion. Immediate treatment with glucose tablets, sugary drinks, or sweets is necessary to raise blood sugar levels.
Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar): Symptoms include excessive thirst, fatigue, and blurred vision. This requires adjusting insulin doses to lower blood sugar levels.
By consistently monitoring and managing their condition, individuals with T1D can prevent complications and maintain their quality of life.
Complications
With proper management, individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) can lead healthy lives without additional health conditions. However, poorly controlled diabetes can result in serious complications, some of which may be life-threatening.
Heart disease and stroke: Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Eye problems (diabetic retinopathy): Damage to the blood vessels in the eyes can lead to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness.
Foot problems: Nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the feet can result in poor healing, ulcers, or infections. If left untreated, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy): High blood sugar can harm nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the extremities. Poor circulation may also contribute to this condition.
Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy): Long-term high blood sugar can impair kidney function, potentially leading to kidney disease or failure.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): This life-threatening condition occurs when high blood sugar and a lack of insulin lead to a buildup of ketones in the blood. DKA can affect the heart, lungs, and brain, requiring immediate hospital treatment.
By maintaining blood sugar levels within the recommended range and adhering to treatment plans, individuals with T1D can minimise the risk of these complications and enjoy a high quality of life.
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is not caused by eating too much sugar—a common misconception. In fact, consuming sugar is essential for individuals with T1D, especially during episodes of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). This autoimmune disease results from the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, although the exact triggers remain unknown. Potential factors include genetics, viral infections, and other environmental influences.
Understanding T1D, along with its symptoms, is crucial for early detection and effective management. Early intervention can prevent serious long-term complications such as kidney damage and vision loss, allowing individuals with T1D to lead healthy lives.
If you or someone you know experiences any symptoms of T1D mentioned in this article, seek medical advice without delay.
Sources
Main body
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board