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Type 1 Diabetes

Learn more about type 1 diabetes and how it is treated. 

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Overview
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Overview

When you have type 1 diabetes, your pancreas does not produce insulin.

Insulin is a hormone that is produced in our bodies to help regulate our blood glucose levels.

For those with type 1 diabetes, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar. Over time, high blood sugar can damage organs

The condition requires careful monitoring of blood sugar levels and insulin therapy.  

Diagnosis, treatment and management of type 1 diabetes takes place in our Diabetes Clinic. 

Our care

Learn more about the specialized care provided at Mount Sinai Hospital for Diabetes and Endocrinology.

This content is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It does not replace the need for consultation with a health-care professional. Please speak with your health-care professional for questions about your health.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes usually appear suddenly. Common signs include:  

  • Feeling more thirsty or hungry than usual
  • Unexplained weight loss  
  • Having to urinate often  
  • Getting frequent infections
  • Blurry vision
  • Unusual fatigue  

If you have symptoms of type 1 diabetes, your physician will confirm the diagnosis with one of the following tests:  

  • A1C test: Shows what your blood sugar levels have been over a period of two to three months
  • Random blood sugar test: Measures your blood sugar levels at a random time
  • Fasting blood sugar test: Measures your blood sugar after you have had nothing to eat or drink overnight
  • Other tests to identify if it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes 
Treatment

Treatment

There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, but treatment can help keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range and prevent complications. Your certified diabetes educator can help you in finding the best tools and lifestyle changes to manage your condition.  

Glucose monitoring  

It is important to monitor your blood glucose levels throughout the day with a glucose meter or wearing a glucose sensor.  

Insulin therapy

People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to manage their diabetes. Insulin can be given with an insulin pen or insulin syringe. Some patients use an insulin pump, which delivers insulin to your body throughout the day.  

Diet and exercise

To help manage your blood glucose, you need to keep track of the amount of carbohydrates you are consuming.  

Exercise and managing your stress levels are also important when managing your diabetes.