Introduction
Type1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body is unable to produce insulin, regulates blood sugar levels. It is also called insulin dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, when the body immune system attacks the cells in the body. In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas.
About 5–10% of people with type 1 diabetes, which is less common than type 2 diabetes. Lets see complications of type 1 diabetes
Risk factors of Type 1 diabetes
Complications of type 1 diabetes can affect other organs in the body by leading it to short-term and long-term health issues. Some of the common complications that include are:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): In this condition, the high blood sugar levels are due to lack of insulin. The cells in the body don’t take up sugars in blood for energy production, so the body produces ketones for energy as an alternative. DKA requires immediate attention. It can be life-threatening if untreated.
Hypoglycemia (Low blood sugar levels): It may occur due to excessive insulin in the blood caused when individuals don’t have sufficient food or are involved in intense physical activity without adjusting insulin dosage intake. Hypoglycemia symptoms are shakiness, sweating, confusion, dizziness, and loss of consciousness or seizures.
Long-term complications: High blood sugar levels for prolonged periods can damage blood vessels and organs. It can lead to various long-term complications that include:
- Cardiovascular disease: Type 1 diabetes increases the risk of heart disease like coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
- Kidney disease (nephropathy): High blood sugar levels can damage the kidney blood vessels. It can lead to kidney damage or failure.
- Eye disease (retinopathy): Type 1 diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina. It can result in diabetic retinopathy. It can cause blindness in adults.
- Nerve damage (neuropathy): Type 1 diabetes can damage the nerves throughout the body, leading to numbness, tingling, pain, and loss of sensation in the feet and hands.
- Foot conditions: Nerve damage and poor blood circulation can increase the risk of foot problems such as ulcers, infections, and even amputation in severe cases.
- Skin conditions: Individuals with type 1 diabetes are more prone to skin conditions such as bacterial and fungal infections. The slow wound healing is commonly seen in type 1 diabetes.
Mental health issues: Individuals with type 1 diabetes can affect mental health by leading to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women with type 1 diabetes are at high risk of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, miscarriage, and birth defects. Proper care and management of blood sugar levels to reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Other complications: Type 1 diabetes can increase the risk of other complications such as dental problems, gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), and sexual dysfunction.
Prevention of Type 1 diabetes complications
Proper treatment and management of type 1 diabetes through insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medical care are essential for preventing the risk of complications. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, managing stress, and receiving vaccinations for flu and pneumonia can further help in reducing risks. Regular check-ups with doctors and adhering to treatment plans are crucial for managing type 1 diabetes.
Conclusion
Type 1 diabetes represents unique challenges and factors for consideration in patients and their healthcare providers. In type 1 diabetes, it can be improved and low the risk of complications by early detection and management strategies. It is essential to promote care not only about physical health but also emotional and psychological health in type 1 diabetes individuals.
