Tip 1 What Is Diabetes?
Tip 1 diabetes is an autoimmune and chronic disease that usually occurs in childhood or young adulthood, resulting from the body's immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Damage to these cells prevents the body from producing enough or any insulin hormone necessary to regulate blood sugar levels. This causes glucose to accumulate in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.
What Are the Symptoms of Tip 1 Diabetes?
The symptoms of Tip 1 diabetes typically start suddenly and become quickly noticeable. Commonly observed symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst and a constant desire to drink water
- Weight loss despite eating more than usual
- Constant fatigue and feeling of weakness
- Blurred vision
- Non-healing or slow-healing wounds
- Dryness and itching of the skin
If one or more of these symptoms are observed, it is important to consult a doctor.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Tip 1 diabetes is made through blood tests after evaluating the patient's complaints and physical examination. Measurements such as fasting blood sugar, postprandial (after eating) blood sugar, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) provide information about blood sugar levels. To confirm the diagnosis and differentiate from Tip 2 diabetes, the presence of diabetes-related autoantibodies in the blood may also be investigated in some cases.
Treatment Approach
The primary goal of treating Tip 1 diabetes is to keep blood sugar levels within the target range as much as possible to prevent or delay adverse short- and long-term effects of the disease. Since the body cannot produce insulin, the core of the treatment is to replace the missing insulin from outside the body.
The treatment process requires a multidisciplinary approach and includes:
- Insulin Therapy: Administration of necessary insulin through injections (insulin pens) or insulin pumps. The insulin dose and type are individually planned by the doctor according to the patient's age, lifestyle, and needs.
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular measurement of blood sugar levels by the patient is critical for evaluating the effectiveness of treatment and making dose adjustments.
- Medical Nutrition Therapy: A balanced and healthy eating program created with a dietitian, which includes carbohydrate counting, is an integral part of blood sugar control.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps the body use insulin more efficiently and improves overall health. The exercise program must be planned under medical supervision.
Tip 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires careful management and regular medical follow-up. Adhering to the treatment plan, controlling blood sugar levels, and not missing regular doctor visits are essential for maintaining a healthy life.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.