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Type 1 diabetes is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions in Australia. It develops most often in people under 30 years of age, although new research shows that almost half of all people who develop it are over 301.
What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas stops producing insulin, the hormone that controls your blood sugar levels. The exact cause is unknown, and the disease can’t be prevented by changes in your lifestyle.
What are type 1 diabetes symptoms?
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes may occur relatively suddenly. Some warning signs to look out for include:
- feeling excessively thirsty
- urinating more often
- feeling hungry all the time
- feeling tired or lethargic
- losing weight for no reason
- blurred vision or feeling dizzy
- mood swings
- slow-healing wounds, itching and skin infections
- headaches
- leg cramps.
If you or your child are experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor.
How to manage type 1 diabetes
Although there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, it can be managed through insulin injections (or an insulin pump) and by regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels. Eating well and exercise can also help to manage type 1 diabetes by helping to keep your blood sugar levels within a specific target range.
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is much less common than type 2 diabetes. It accounts for about one in 10 diabetes cases in Australia2. While both are chronic diseases that affect the way your body regulates blood glucose (sugar) levels, there are some key differences.
Type 1 diabetes is a life-threatening condition that needs to be closely managed with daily care, often involving insulin replacement. Type 2 is more of a progressive condition that can often be initially managed through diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes. However, over time, those with type 2 diabetes may require medication to manage their blood glucose levels.
Learn more about the differences between the two conditions.
How to spot the symptoms of type 1 diabetes
Medibank Type 2 Diabetes Program
This 12-month program includes consultations with a dietitian and a supported meal plan that aims to help eligible members achieve a healthy weight and manage their type 2 diabetes. Clinical and product eligibility criteria apply.
1 Better Health Channel, Diabetes Type 1; retrieved 8 July 2022.
2 Diabetes Australia, Diabetes in Australia; retrieved 8 July 2022.
