Type 1 diabetes was formerly called juvenile onset diabetes because it occurs in younger people under twenty years of age
. Usually this diabetes type occurs around the age of twelve or thirteen. It is known as the most severe form of diabetes since the body produces no insulin.
Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas. Insulin is responsible for helping the body use glucose or blood sugar. Without insulin the body's cells cannot use glucose for energy. If the cells cannot use glucose, fat is burned for energy. As a result ketones from the breakdown of fat build up in the blood. Ketones can be dangerous if they reach high levels and can result in death. Following the prescribed type 1 diabetes treatment can help a patient live a long healthy life.
Since the body makes no insulin with diabetics, the individual diagnosed with the disorder must take insulin to manage blood sugar levels. Insulin types include rapid acting, intermediate acting and long acting. Physicians often prescribe a combination of these insulin types.
Insulin may be injected by injection using a syringe or an insulin pen that looks like an ink pen but contains a cartridge filled with insulin. Some diabetes type 1 opt for using an insulin pump. The pump is small like a cell phone and is connected to a tube which delivers insulin to cells via a catheter inserted under the skin in the abdomen. Additionally, they keep track of how much carbohydrate is eaten since insulin amounts may be adjusted based on carbohydrate intake.
Other measures used in type 1 diabetes treatment include counting carbohydrates, consuming foods that are low in sugar, fat and cholesterol, and exercising regularly. Individuals may also be placed on blood pressure and cholesterol medications since diabetics are more susceptible to heart disease and stroke.