Diabetes mellitus type 1 (elevated blood sugar)
About Diabetes mellitus type 1 (elevated blood sugar)
Type 1 diabetes is a disease in which the body does not make enough insulin to control blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and helps to regulate the bodyâs blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is most commonly diagnosed in younger patients and was previously called juvenile diabetes. At times the first signs of Type 1 diabetes is a life threatening complication called diabetic ketoacidosis.Symptoms
Increased urination, increased drinking of fluids, increased appetite, nausea, fatigue, blurry vision. Patients with diabetic ketoacidosis may experience severe vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and fainting.Tests & Diagnostics
A complete history and physical will be performed. Glucose measurements are performed randomly and as a fasting level first thing in the morning. A hemoglobin A1C can measure the success of controlling the glucose level over time.Common tests: Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Hemoglobin A1C, Urinalysis (UA).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the severity of disease. Supplemental insulin is required and may be administered as an injection or as an intermittent continuous infusion delivered from an insulin pump. The insulin doses required are dependent on glucose measurements done during the day. For more information contact the American Diabetes Association: 800-342-2383Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism · Pediatric Endocrinology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Diabetes mellitus type 1 (elevated blood sugar).