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New to T1D? Start here. We'll break down what Type 1 Diabetes is, how it's managed, and where you can go for deeper learning.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas stops producing insulin. This happens because the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. Without insulin, glucose (sugar) can't enter the cells and builds up in the bloodstream, which is dangerous.
Important: Type 1 is not caused by diet or lifestyle. It's not preventable, and it's not your fault. It just happens—and millions of people manage it well every day.
Type 1 is autoimmune; Type 2 involves insulin resistance. Different causes, different management.
Read Comparison →Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, weight loss. Usually come on suddenly.
Learn More →Blood tests (A1C, glucose, antibodies). Usually diagnosed at emergency with DKA.
Diagnosis Guide →Glucose is your body's fuel—it comes from the food you eat. Normally, your pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose and use it for energy. With Type 1, your pancreas doesn't make insulin, so you have to take it artificially.
Your goal is to keep blood sugar in a healthy range: typically 80-130 mg/dL before meals and under 180 mg/dL after meals (though targets vary by age and individual).
Below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms: shaking, sweating, racing heart, anxiety, confusion, hunger.
Treatment: 15g quick carbs
Above 180 mg/dL. Symptoms: thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, headache.
Treatment: More insulin + fluids
Traditional testing: prick finger, place drop on strip, get reading in seconds. Needed to confirm lows and assess trends.
Meter Comparison →Small sensor worn on skin. Reads glucose every 5-15 minutes. Sends data to phone/pump. Game-changer for many.
CGM Buying Guide →Insulin dosing is based on the carbs you eat. Learning to count carbs is essential.
A1C (Hemoglobin A1C) is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar over the last 3 months. It's the key metric your doctor uses to assess diabetes control.
Note: Goals vary by age and individual circumstances. Talk to your healthcare team about your personal A1C target.
With good blood sugar control, you can prevent or delay these complications:
Eye damage. Preventable with good control + regular eye exams.
Kidney damage. Preventable with good control + blood pressure management.
Nerve damage (usually feet). Preventable with good control + foot care.
Increased risk. Preventable with good control + exercise + healthy diet.
Life-threatening. Prevented by taking insulin daily (missing doses = risk).
Immediate danger. Managed with awareness, glucose testing, and carb counting.
The good news: Many people with T1D live long, healthy lives without complications by staying engaged with their care.
