We have just launched a brand new sinaihealth.ca website experience. Should you experience any technical issues, we would greatly appreciate hearing from you.
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.