Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms
Sometimes you may identify a Type 1 Diabetes Symptom correctly and sometimes you may not. Even though the symptoms can be seen in other forms of diabetes, certain factors make it a bit tricky to identify.
Q - Is there a special Type 1 Diabetes symptom that differentiates it from others?
A - Not really. In fact most people with type 1 diabetes usually show no signs of diabetes except when it becomes complicated. When it becomes complicated, then they have loose dry skin, a dry tongue, severe thirst, fast pulse, deep breathing and their breath may have a "sweet but sickly" smell to it.
Q - Do people with Type 1 Diabetes have other symptoms?
A - Yes, people with type 1 diabetes also show symptoms common to all forms of diabetes. Symptoms like excessive thirst, excessive drinking of water, weight loss and passing a lot of urine are common to all types of diabetes.
Q - How early do the symptoms occur?
A - Type 1 diabetes symptoms usually appear when most of the islet cells have been destroyed. Remember that the problem in type 1 diabetes is the destruction of the insulin producing cells. As these cells are being destroyed, those that are still functional compensate by producing more insulin. So the destruction goes on while the body still has enough insulin to function until it reaches a critical stage when the cells can no longer produce enough insulin. Then the symptoms begin to appear.
Q - For how long do the symptoms last?
A - When these symptoms appear they usually don't last for so long before complications arise if treatment is not started. This is because by the time they appear, most of the islet cells are already destroyed and so there is little or no insulin being produced in the body.
Q - Why is it difficult to identify them?
A - It's difficult to identify these symptoms because, firstly, many people don't know what to look for. Secondly, type 1 diabetes mellitus occurs mostly in children and it's a bit difficult for children to identify subtle symptoms like drinking more water than normal. Thirdly, parents find it difficult to notice the symptoms because many of them seldom have enough time to closely interact with their kids in this fast moving world of today.
Q - How can I ensure that I identify the symptoms early?
A -
- Identify if your child has the risk factors.
- Educate your child on the symptoms to look out for.
- Keep communication lines open between you and your children.
- Do a regular check with your child to find out if any symptoms have appeared.
- Talk to your doctor for a blood glucose check at recommended intervals.
Q - What should I do if I notice any Type 1 diabetes symptom
A - If you notice any type 1 diabetes symptom in your child, you should take the child to see the doctor immediately.
Created - June, 2006
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