Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Type 1 Diabetes is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction in which the body attacks itself by mistake. This reaction stops the body from making insulin. Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes are prescribed insulin which is taken daily by pump or injection. Type 1 Diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults but can be diagnosed at any age, and symptoms often develop quickly. Newly diagnosed individual’s with Type 1 Diabetes, may not experience any symptoms prior to diagnosis.
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Urinating often
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very hungry—even though you are eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss—even though you are eating more
Currently, there is no known prevention for the occurrence of Type 1 Diabetes. Testing, education about diabetes symptoms, and monitoring, has been shown to enable earlier diagnosis and to prevent complications often associated with diabetes. Additional information can be found at the American Diabetes Association website Understanding Type 1 Diabetes and Centers for Disease Control website, Type 1 Diabetes.
Ensuring that students with diabetes have the health services they need in school is important in helping them stay healthy and ready to learn. If your student has Type 1 Diabetes, contact the nurse at your student’s school.
