Symptoms
If you have any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to type 1 diabetes. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:
- Weight loss
- Increased urination
- Extreme thirst
- Hunger
- Fatigue, weakness
- Blurry vision
- Irritability
- Headaches
Destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells may occur so quickly that ketoacidosis (commonly known as diabetic coma) is the first sign of a problem. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include:
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration (not enough fluid in the body)
- Drowsiness
- Abnormally deep and fast breathing
- Coma
- Dry skin and mouth
- Fruity breath odor
- Rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure
- Flushed face
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical and family history, and perform a physical exam.
Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed based on the results of blood tests and other criteria. These include:
- Symptoms consistent with diabetes and a random blood test revealing a blood sugar level greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL* (11.1 mmol/L)
- Blood sugar tests after you have not eaten for eight or more hours revealing blood sugar levels greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) on two different days
- Glucose tolerance test measuring blood sugar two hours after you consume glucose (rarely needed to diagnose type 1 diabetes)
Some children may be tested for insulin levels or anti-pancreas antibodies to confirm the diagnosis.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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