Diabetes ArticlesConcerns and Complications of Type 1 Diabetes Questions And Answers About Diabetes During Pregnancy Understanding First Signs of Diabetes Complications That Arise From Diabetes The Case For A Vegan Diabetes Menu Gestational Diabetes Testing and Pregnancy Understanding Diabetes Management What are the Causes of Diabetes? View the complete list of articles Other TopicsMore Information |
Concerns and Complications of Type 1 DiabetesComplications of Type 1 DiabetesThe complications of Type 1 diabetes can be short-range or long term. Short-term complications must be treated immediately because they present the possibilities of seizures or a coma. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, can occur for many reasons like illness, overeating or not taking enough insulin. Besides monitoring the blood on a regular basis, urine should also be tested to watch out for increased ketones, which are toxic acids produced when the cells are starved for energy. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar can happen if a meal is skipped, there has been an increase in physical activity or if too much insulin was taken. All of these situations require immediate and accurate treatment. Long-term complications develop more slowly but can create life-threatening situations. Type 1 diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. Increased sugar in the blood for long periods of time damages blood vessels, which leads to nerve damage, especially in the legs. Type 1 diabetes can also interfere with the filtering system of the kidneys, causing irreversible damage. Although all of this information sounds grim, Type 1 diabetes can be successfully managed and a person with this condition can lead a normal and fulfilling life. |