Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)

  Introduction

            Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) also known as autoimmune diabetes is characterized by impaired ability of the body to maintain correct levels of sugar within the blood due to the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells and thus resulting to hyperglycemia. This condition was previously known as "insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (IDDM) or "juvenile diabetes" as it usually develops in children or young adults.

        Management of T1DM requires multiple insulin therapy daily as well as glucose monitoring. Effective nursing care is essential to provide education and support to the patient as well as collaborative multidisciplinary approach, utilizing medical providers, nurse and dietitian, pharmacists, and specialists (as needed) are recommended.

Causes

           Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system, which is meant to protect against infections and other harmful invaders, mistakenly targets and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

            Most people believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors causes type 1 diabetes. Genetics are important; people with a family history of type 1 diabetes are more likely to get it. However, genetics alone don't completely explain why some people develop the disease and others don't. Scientists think that certain viruses and other environmental factors might trigger type 1 diabetes in people who are genetically prone to it.

Signs and Symptoms

            Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes usually begin mildly and gradually intensify over time, which can occur over a period of days, weeks, or months. This is because your pancreas makes less and less insulin.

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes include:

•          Extreme thirst.
•          Frequent urination
•         Excessive hunger.
•          Dry mouth
•          Unexplained weight loss.
•          Fatigue.
•          Blurred vision.
•          Slow healing of cuts and sores.
•         Vaginal yeast infections.
•          Mood changes
•         Nausea and vomiting

Chronic Symptoms 

            Even after it is diagnosed and treatment is begun, type 1 diabetes can affect all body systems. It is less likely to damage the body, and cause symptoms, if the blood sugar levels are well controlled by treatment. The serious and potentially life-threatening complications that can occur with type 1 diabetes include:

•          Eye damage
•          Nerve damage
•          Foot problems
•          Kidney disease
•          Heart and artery disease
•          Hypoglycemia