Type 1 Diabetes Can Affect More Than Children…

Even though Type 1 diabetes is often called ‘juvenile’ diabetes it can occur at any age.

According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), “Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age. However, it is most commonly diagnosed from infancy to late 30s.”

Type 1 diabetes is often considered a more severe form of diabetes. Unfortunately, it normally goes undiagnosed. The symptoms in a younger person can be confused for other illnesses. The symptom list is similar to type 2 diabetes, but when ignored in a younger person can lead to tragedy. The following symptoms should raise a red flag:

· Extreme thirst

· Drowsiness and Lethargy

· Sudden vision changes

· Fruity, sweet odor on breath

· Heavy labored breathing

· Stupor on unconsciousness

· Sudden weight loss

· Increased appetite

If you notice one or more of these symptoms bring it to the attention of the doctor. Discuss the possibility of type 1 diabetes. In this case, ignorance is NOT bliss.

JDRF defines type 1 diabetes as the following, “when a person’s pancreas produces little to no insulin, and the body’s immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.”

A difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is type 2 can at times be controlled with lifestyle changes and an oral medication. Whereas, type 1 diabetes patients’ MUST inject insulin and at times have insulin regulated through an insulin pump.

The treatment of type 1 requires a fine balance of insulin because instigating factors can oscillate throughout the day. Too much insulin and the body’s blood sugar can drop to a dangerously low level and can be life-threatening.

Living with type 1 diabetes can be a struggle but not impossible. Your health care provider can help create a manageable plan for a healthy life.

REFERENCES:

Reference: Type 1Diabetes Info. Accessed at:

http://donate.jdrf.org/info/jdrfqa/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2oqHmaub1wIVUAaGCh3ViQTpEAAYAiAAEgJFyvD_BwE#type1 . Accessed on: October 31, 2017

Reference What is Type 1. Accessed at:

https://www.diabetesresearch.org/what-is-type-one-diabetes?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2oqHmaub1wIVUAaGCh3ViQTpEAAYBCAAEgL3r_D_BwE.

Accessed on: October 31, 2017