Type 1 diabetes

Definition

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin due to autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. It requires lifelong management involving blood sugar monitoring, insulin therapy, and dietary adjustments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Type 1 diabetes often presents in childhood or adolescence but can develop at any age.
2. Patients with type 1 diabetes must monitor their blood sugar levels multiple times a day to avoid hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
3. Carbohydrate counting is an essential part of meal planning for individuals with type 1 diabetes to manage blood glucose levels effectively.
4. Insulin therapy is necessary for survival in type 1 diabetes and can be administered through injections or an insulin pump.
5. Proper nutrition, including balanced meals with controlled carbohydrate intake, plays a crucial role in managing type 1 diabetes.

Review Questions

• What is the primary cause of type 1 diabetes?
• Why is carbohydrate counting important for individuals with type 1 diabetes?
• What are two methods of administering insulin for patients with type 1 diabetes?

Related terms

Insulin:

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating cellular glucose uptake

Hyperglycemia:

A condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, commonly associated with uncontrolled diabetes

Hypoglycemia:

A condition where blood sugar levels drop below normal, which can cause symptoms like shakiness, confusion, and fainting