Overview
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, usually starting in childhood or young adulthood, in which the pancreas stops making insulin almost entirely. Without daily insulin injections it is rapidly life-threatening. With insulin, glucose monitoring and support, children and adults with type 1 live full lives.
Symptoms
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination, including bedwetting in a previously dry child
- Rapid weight loss despite eating
- Extreme hunger
- Tiredness and weakness
- Blurred vision
- Deep, fast breathing with fruity-smelling breath (emergency)
Causes & risk factors
- Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells
- Genetic susceptibility
- Possible viral triggers (not caused by sugar or lifestyle)
Treatment & self-care
Treatment is lifelong insulin by injection or pump, matched to meals and activity, with regular blood glucose checks and clinic follow-up. Families learn to recognise and treat low sugar episodes quickly. Consistent insulin supply, balanced meals and education make all the difference — insulin must never be stopped.
See a doctor urgently if
- A child or young person with thirst, urination and weight loss — same day
- Vomiting, deep breathing or drowsiness in a known diabetic
- Repeated low-sugar episodes or fainting
- Glucose readings persistently very high despite insulin