Insulin dependent diabetes, also known as type 1 diabetes or T1D, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce enough or any insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. In this condition, the immune system erroneously attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in their destruction or dysfunction. As a consequence, individuals with insulin dependent diabetes are required to take exogenous insulin, usually through injections or an insulin pump, for the rest of their lives.
The symptoms of insulin dependent diabetes may include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, blurry vision, and slow wound healing. If left untreated or improperly managed, this condition can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, eye problems, and even diabetic coma.
Diagnosis of insulin dependent diabetes involves blood tests that measure blood glucose levels and the presence of specific antibodies in the blood. Treatment encompasses blood sugar monitoring, insulin administration, meal planning, regular physical activity, and education on managing the disease.
Insulin dependent diabetes differs from type 2 diabetes, as the latter is typically associated with insulin resistance rather than a lack of insulin production. It usually develops later in life and can often be managed with lifestyle modifications, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy. In contrast, insulin dependent diabetes primarily affects younger individuals, often children or adolescents, and requires lifelong insulin replacement therapy to maintain adequate blood sugar control.
