Summary about Disease
Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM), also known as Type 1 Diabetes, is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in a complete or near-complete lack of insulin production. Insulin is crucial for allowing glucose (sugar) from food to enter cells for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Type 1 diabetes typically develops in childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age. It requires lifelong insulin therapy for survival.
Symptoms
Frequent urination, especially at night (polyuria)
Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
Unexplained weight loss
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Blurry vision
Fatigue and weakness
Slow-healing sores
Frequent infections
Dry, itchy skin
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet (in advanced cases)
Causes
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact triggers for this autoimmune response are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of:
Genetic Predisposition: Certain genes, particularly those related to the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system, increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes.
Environmental Factors: Viruses, certain foods, or other environmental triggers may initiate the autoimmune response in genetically susceptible individuals.
Autoantibodies: The presence of autoantibodies (antibodies that attack the body's own tissues) against beta cells is a hallmark of type 1 diabetes.
Medicine Used
The primary treatment for Type 1 Diabetes is lifelong insulin therapy. Insulin cannot be taken orally because it is broken down in the digestive system. Therefore, it must be administered through:
Insulin Injections: Using syringes or insulin pens to inject insulin under the skin. Different types of insulin are available (rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting) to mimic the body's natural insulin release.
Insulin Pump: A small, computerized device that delivers a continuous, steady dose of insulin throughout the day. The user can also program the pump to deliver bolus doses of insulin to cover meals.
Is Communicable
No, Type 1 Diabetes is not communicable. It is an autoimmune disease, not an infectious disease, and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring: Checking blood sugar levels multiple times a day is essential to manage insulin dosage and prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
Insulin Administration: Following the prescribed insulin regimen carefully, including the correct type, dose, and timing of insulin.
Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet with consistent carbohydrate intake to match insulin doses. Consulting with a registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator is highly recommended.
Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control.
Foot Care: Inspecting feet daily for sores, cuts, or blisters, and seeking prompt medical attention for any foot problems.
Medical Identification: Wearing a medical identification bracelet or necklace indicating that you have Type 1 Diabetes.
Emergency Preparedness: Having a glucagon kit readily available to treat severe hypoglycemia.
Regular Medical Checkups: Seeing an endocrinologist and other healthcare providers regularly for monitoring and management of diabetes-related complications.
How long does an outbreak last?
There is no "outbreak" of Type 1 Diabetes. Once the autoimmune process has destroyed a significant portion of the insulin-producing beta cells, the condition is chronic and lifelong. Management is continuous, not a temporary outbreak.
How is it diagnosed?
Type 1 Diabetes is typically diagnosed based on the following:
Blood Glucose Tests:
Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG): Measures blood glucose after an overnight fast. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate occasions indicates diabetes.
Random Plasma Glucose: Measures blood glucose at any time of day. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with symptoms of diabetes, indicates diabetes.
A1C Test: Measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. An A1C of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
Antibody Tests:
Testing for the presence of autoantibodies (e.g., islet cell antibodies, glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies, insulin autoantibodies) can help confirm the diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes, particularly in individuals with atypical presentations.
Urine Ketone Test: Ketones are produced when the body burns fat for energy because it doesn't have enough insulin to use glucose. High levels of ketones in the urine can indicate a lack of insulin.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms in Type 1 Diabetes can vary, but it often develops rapidly, over a period of weeks to months, especially in children.
Early Stages: Increased thirst and frequent urination are often the first noticeable symptoms.
Later Stages: Unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, blurry vision, and slow-healing sores may develop as blood glucose levels rise.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): If left untreated, Type 1 Diabetes can lead to DKA, a life-threatening complication characterized by severe hyperglycemia, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the buildup of ketones in the blood. Symptoms of DKA include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, and a fruity odor on the breath.
Important Considerations
Education and Support: Comprehensive diabetes education is crucial for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes and their families. This education should cover blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration, meal planning, exercise, sick-day management, and prevention of complications.
Psychological Support: Living with Type 1 Diabetes can be challenging, and psychological support (e.g., counseling, support groups) can help individuals cope with the emotional aspects of the disease.
Technology: Advancements in diabetes technology, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps, can significantly improve blood glucose control and quality of life for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes.
Long-Term Complications: Poorly controlled Type 1 Diabetes can lead to serious long-term complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye damage, and foot problems. Regular medical checkups and proactive management can help prevent or delay these complications.
Research: Ongoing research is focused on finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes and developing new and improved treatments.