Understanding Type 1 Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Recently, former member of the mixed-gender group ‘ZAM,’ Yoon Hyun-sook, revealed her battle with Type 1 diabetes, drawing increased attention to the condition. Hollywood actress Halle Berry has also been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and has managed it through strict diet control and exercise. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that requires lifelong management. Although medical advancements have improved treatment options, patients still face many challenges. In this post, we will explore the reality of Type 1 diabetes and effective management strategies.

---

1. What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the pancreatic beta cells, preventing the production of insulin. It is commonly diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, earning it the nickname “juvenile diabetes.” However, it can also develop in adults. People with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy.

---

2. Causes of Type 1 Diabetes

The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes remains unknown, but the following factors are believed to contribute:

• Autoimmune Response: The immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
• Genetic Factors: Individuals with a family history of Type 1 diabetes may have an increased risk.
• Viral Infections: Certain viruses, such as Coxsackievirus and Rotavirus, may trigger an immune response leading to diabetes.
• Environmental Factors: Stress, diet, and other external factors may contribute to disease onset.

---

3. Key Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes symptoms appear as blood sugar levels rise due to insulin deficiency. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination (polyuria): The kidneys attempt to excrete excess glucose, leading to increased urination.
• Extreme thirst (polydipsia): Fluid loss causes persistent thirst.
• Excessive hunger (polyphagia): The body lacks energy due to improper glucose utilization, increasing appetite.
• Sudden weight loss: The body breaks down fat and muscle for energy.
• Fatigue and weakness: Cells fail to receive adequate energy.
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar causes swelling in the eye’s lens.

If these symptoms appear, immediate blood sugar testing and medical diagnosis are necessary.

---

4. How is Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosed?

Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed through the following tests:

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: A blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher after fasting for 8 hours indicates diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher after drinking a glucose solution confirms diabetes.
• HbA1c Test: An A1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
• Autoantibody Test: The presence of specific autoantibodies (e.g., GAD or ICA) suggests Type 1 diabetes.

---

5. How to Manage Type 1 Diabetes

Although Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, proper management allows for a normal lifestyle.

1) Insulin Therapy

Patients must inject insulin to regulate blood sugar. Major insulin types include:

• Rapid-acting insulin: Works quickly after meals.
• Short-acting insulin: Taken 30 minutes before meals, lasts 3-6 hours.
• Intermediate-acting insulin: Lasts longer, requiring 1-2 injections per day.
• Long-acting insulin: Provides steady blood sugar control for 24 hours.

2) Diet Management

A balanced diet is essential for stable blood sugar levels.

• Consume low-GI foods: Whole grains, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods slow blood sugar spikes.
• Limit simple carbohydrates: Avoid white rice, flour, and sugar.
• Eat protein and healthy fats: Chicken breast, tofu, nuts, and olive oil provide satiety and prevent muscle loss.

3) Exercise and Lifestyle Changes

• Regular physical activity: Combine aerobic (walking, cycling, swimming) and strength training for better blood sugar control.
• Frequent blood sugar monitoring: Helps prevent hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
• Stress management: Practices like meditation and yoga can help control blood sugar levels.

4) Preventing and Managing Hypoglycemia

Insulin use can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which requires quick intervention.

• Symptoms: Dizziness, sweating, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating.
• Response: Consume 15-20g of sugar (juice, glucose tablets, candy), then check blood sugar after 15 minutes.

---

6. Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes

Category	Type 1 Diabetes	Type 2 Diabetes
Cause	Autoimmune attack on beta cells	Insulin resistance and decreased production
Onset Age	Mostly childhood/adolescence	Mostly adulthood
Insulin Requirement	Essential	Sometimes necessary
Management	Insulin, diet, and exercise	Diet, exercise, oral medications, and sometimes insulin

---

7. Consistent Management is Key

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease with no cure, but proper management allows individuals to live healthy lives. Regular insulin therapy, diet control, exercise, and blood sugar monitoring can prevent complications and improve overall well-being. Understanding the disease and maintaining a proactive management approach is essential for a better quality of life.