Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My cousin is 15 years old and was just diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. She feels tired all the time, and even when she eats, she says her stomach hurts. I am worried that her blood sugar levels might not be well-managed. She does not like taking insulin every day and sometimes skips it. Could this be dangerous for her? We are also unsure how to help her balance her meals properly to control her sugar levels. She is very scared about having this condition for life. Can type 1 diabetes cause problems with her heart or eyes later on? Her mood swings a lot too could that be related? Should we see a diabetes specialist, or is a family doctor enough?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar (glucose) enter cells to provide energy.
Type 1 diabetes can be caused by factors like genetics or some viruses. While it usually develops in childhood or adolescence, it can also appear in adults. Despite many years of research, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes. Treatment focuses on managing blood sugar levels with insulin, diet, and lifestyle changes to prevent complications.
Treatment for type 1 diabetes includes:
Taking insulin.
Counting carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
Monitoring blood sugar regularly.
Eating healthy foods.
Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.
The goal is to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible to prevent complications. Typically, blood sugar levels should be between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter before meals, and no higher than 180 milligrams per deciliter two hours after meals.
People with type 1 diabetes need insulin therapy for life. If your cousin fears daily injections, an insulin pump might be a good option.
If type 1 diabetes is not managed properly, it can lead to problems with the kidneys, heart, and eyes. It is best to consult an endocrinologist, as they specialize in diabetes care, rather than relying solely on a family physician.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Eagambaram Jaganathan
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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