Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1)
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 1 diabetes is a health problem where your immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Insulin helps your body use sugar as energy for many of its daily functions. Without insulin, your blood sugar will go up to dangerous levels. Diabetes does not go away. You will learn to manage it with eating the right way and taking drugs as ordered by a doctor.
Name
Diabetes Type 1 Discharge Instructions, Adult
About this topic
Type 1 diabetes is a health problem where your immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Insulin helps your body use sugar as energy for many of its daily functions. Without insulin, your blood sugar will go up to dangerous levels. Diabetes does not go away. You will learn to manage it with eating the right way and taking drugs as ordered by a doctor.
What changes to diet are needed?
Work closely with your doctor or dietitian on what foods you may eat. You may need to balance how much sugar, starches, fat, and protein are in your food.,Eat meals at the same time each day. Do not skip a meal.,Eat low-fat foods like lean cuts of meat, fish, skinless chicken and turkey, legumes, and low-fat milk.,Eat foods that are fiber-rich like vegetables, whole grain bread and cereals.,Limit beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).,Avoid sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices
What problems could happen?
Eye problems,Kidney problems,Infection,High blood pressure,Nerve problems that cause numbness and tingling,Problems breaking down food,Heart problems,Stroke,Sores which are hard to heal,Foot problems,Blockages in the blood vessels in the legs,Dangerously high or low blood sugar levels
When do I need to call the doctor?
Very high or very low blood sugar readings that do not respond to treatment,Signs of low blood sugar. These include hunger, dizziness, shaking, a fast heartbeat, confusion, or sweating. Keep hard candies, glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or juice on hand for low blood sugar. Ask the doctor how much of these items should be given to treat a low blood sugar reading.,Signs of high blood sugar. These include sleepiness, blurred vision, passing urine more often, increased thirst, breath has a fruity sweet smell, upset stomach and throwing up, dizziness, or passing out.,Feet or legs are numb or painful,Sores on your feet
Body systems
Adult,Ambulatory Care,Endocrine and Metabolic
What are other common names?
Autoimmune Diabetes,Brittle Diabetes,Diabetes (Type 1),Diabetes Mellitus Type 1,Diabetes Type I,Diabetes, Type 1,IDDM,Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus,Ketosis-Prone Diabetes,Sugar Diabetes,Type 1,Type 1 Diabetes,Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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