10 Early Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes Not to be Missed.

2 and a half years ago, our world was turned upside down by Type 1 diabetes. We were fortunate enough to pick up on some of the early signs and get our four year old daughter to the hospital very quickly. Some families have not been as fortunate and have experienced heart-breaking and devastating outcomes. Today I want to share with you some of those vital early signs to raise awareness and give you symptoms to look out for in those around you.

What are the early signs of Type 1 Diabetes?

Someone showing the early signs may show some or all of these. The most common are nearer the top of the list.

1. Thirst / dehydration.

2. Tiredness / extreme fatigue.

3. Weight loss.

4. Increased urination.

5. Abdominal pain.

6. Nausea or vomiting.

7. Irritability / quick mood changes.

8. Fruity smelling breath.

9. Blurry vision.

10. Increased hunger.

What are the causes of Type 1?

Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system, the body’s system for fighting infection, attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas, resulting in no insulin production and as a result the blood glucose levels rise too high. The cause of this remains unknown but it is important to know it is certainly not caused by poor diet, eating habits or an unhealthy lifestyle. There is nothing you can do to prevent it. Scientific research is ongoing and it is thought that it could possibly be caused by genes and environmental factors such as viruses that may trigger the disease.

What is the average age of developing Type 1?

There are around 400,000 people in the UK with Type 1 diabetes, 29,000 of which are children. It can develop at any age but is more common in children and teenagers. Around 85% or newly diagnosed patients have no family history at all.

Is there a cure for Type 1?

No there is currently no cure. It can be treated successfully by regular blood glucose testing and administering insulin, either by an injection or pump, and by following a healthy, balanced diet and getting regular physical activity.

If Type 1 is suspected what should I do now?

Type 1 develops in a relatively short period of time, normally over days and weeks rather than months. If undetected the blood glucose levels rise so much that the patient can go into DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) which is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. It is therefore vital that if you suspect Type 1 in yourself or anyone else that medical attention is sought immediately, DO NOT DELAY! A simple finger prick test will confirm the high levels of glucose in the blood and the necessary treatment plan will be put into place.

If you would like to read more about this topic and how it as a family we live with it, please follow the link to my webpage or subscribe to my blog here.