Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes requires ongoing medical management to maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Our AHPRA-accredited online doctors and medical practitioners are available 24/7 to provide expert advice and support.

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This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Without insulin, glucose cannot enter cells for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels that require lifelong management through insulin therapy. While type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents, particularly between the ages of 10 and 14. The exact cause remains unknown, but genetic and environmental factors, such as viral infections, may play a role in triggering the immune response. Proper management, including insulin therapy, a balanced diet, and regular monitoring, is crucial for maintaining health and preventing complications.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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You should consult a GP for Type 1 diabetes if you experience any of the following:

  • New or worsening symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, or blurry vision.
  • Blood sugar fluctuations: If your blood sugar levels are consistently too high or too low
  • Ketosis warning signs: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fruity-smelling breath, confusion, or abdominal pain may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
  • Infection: More prone to infections and delayed healing
  • Medication adjustments: If you need a prescription refill, dose change, or advice on insulin therapy
  • Online referrals: If you need referrals for endocrinologists, or pathology tests

Some of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:

  • Frequent urination: Increased need to urinate, especially at night.
  • Excessive thirst: Constant feeling of thirst, even after drinking water.
  • Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating normally, the body burns fat and muscle for energy.
  • Extreme fatigue: Persistent tiredness due to the body’s inability to use glucose for energy.
  • Increased hunger: Constant hunger as the body lacks insulin to convert food into energy.
  • Blurry vision: High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the eye’s lens, leading to vision issues.
  • Slow-healing wounds: Cuts, sores, or infections take longer to heal.
  • Irritability & mood changes: Blood sugar fluctuations may lead to mood swings.
  • Fruity-smelling breath: A sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous condition requiring urgent medical attention.
  • Tingling or numbness: Prolonged high blood sugar can affect nerve function.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to little or no insulin production, requiring lifelong insulin therapy.

Key causes include:

  • Genetics: Family history increases the risk.
  • Autoimmune response: The body’s immune system mistakenly destroys pancreatic cells.
  • Environmental triggers: Viruses, infections, or certain environmental factors may trigger the onset.

Unlike Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle factors like diet and exercise do not cause Type 1 diabetes.

Without proper management, Type 1 diabetes can lead to serious short-term and long-term complications:

Short-term complications:

  • Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening condition caused by high blood sugar and lack of insulin, leading to excess ketone production.
  • Hypoglycaemia: Too much insulin or not enough food can cause dizziness, confusion, sweating, or fainting.
  • Hyperglycaemia: Can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Long-term complications:

  • Heart disease & stroke: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, increasing cardiovascular risks.
  • Kidney disease: Excess sugar in the blood can strain the kidneys.
  • Nerve damage: Can cause tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet.
  • Eye problems: High glucose levels can damage the retina, leading to vision loss.
  • Foot ulcers & infections: Poor circulation and nerve damage increase the risk of non-healing wounds.

The difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is the cause. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. It requires lifelong insulin therapy. Whereas Type 2 diabetes is primarily linked to lifestyle factors and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. It can often be managed with diet, exercise, and medication.

A balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and fibre-rich vegetables can help regulate blood sugar levels. Limit processed carbs and sugary drinks.

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Read more about type 1 diabetes and other chronic conditions

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