Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to high blood sugar levels because the body can no longer produce enough insulin, a hormone needed to convert blood sugar into energy. Managing type 1 diabetes is a lifelong endeavor that extends beyond medical treatments, requiring a proactive approach to self-care for a full, healthy life.
Daily Glucose Management
Managing blood glucose levels throughout the day is foundational to type 1 diabetes self-care. This involves regular monitoring, either through finger-prick tests or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). CGMs use a small sensor under the skin to provide real-time glucose readings, reducing the need for frequent finger pricks. This monitoring helps individuals understand how food, physical activity, and insulin influence their blood sugar.
Insulin therapy is central to managing type 1 diabetes, as the body does not produce its own insulin. This therapy commonly involves multiple daily injections or an insulin pump. Regimens include basal insulin, a long-acting insulin for continuous background supply, and bolus insulin, a rapid-acting insulin taken before meals or to correct high blood sugar. Accurate dosing of both is important for maintaining glucose within a target range.
Carbohydrate counting and careful meal planning are also integral to daily glucose management. Individuals learn to estimate the carbohydrate content of their meals and snacks to adjust their bolus insulin doses accordingly. This practice allows for greater flexibility in food choices while aiming to keep blood glucose levels stable. Maintaining balanced meals and consistent eating patterns can further contribute to more predictable blood sugar responses.
Keeping detailed records of blood glucose levels, insulin doses, and food intake is beneficial. This log provides a comprehensive overview that helps identify patterns and trends in glucose fluctuations. Analyzing this data allows individuals and their healthcare providers to make informed adjustments to insulin regimens and meal plans, optimizing glucose control and reducing complication risk.
Physical Activity and Type 1 Diabetes
Engaging in regular physical activity offers numerous benefits for overall health, including improved cardiovascular health and weight management. For individuals with type 1 diabetes, exercise also presents unique considerations due to its impact on blood glucose levels. Physical activity can lead to either low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) during or after exercise, or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) depending on the type and intensity.
Careful monitoring of blood glucose levels before, during, and after physical activity is important to prevent fluctuations. It is advisable to aim for a blood glucose level around 7-8 mmol/L before starting exercise. Adjustments to insulin doses or carbohydrate intake may be necessary to maintain glucose within a safe range. For planned exercise, a reduction in mealtime insulin at the preceding meal may be considered, followed by close monitoring.
Carrying fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets or sugary drinks, is an important precaution to treat unexpected low blood sugar during or after exercise. Staying well-hydrated is also important for physical exertion. Regularly discussing exercise routines with healthcare providers helps develop a personalized management plan.
Responding to Blood Sugar Emergencies
Understanding how to recognize and respond to acute blood sugar fluctuations is fundamental to self-care for individuals with type 1 diabetes. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 4 mmol/L. Common symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, and hunger.
For mild to moderate hypoglycemia, the “rule of 15” is recommended: consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, 4 ounces of juice, or a tablespoon of honey. After 15 minutes, recheck blood glucose levels. If the level is still low, repeat the process until blood sugar returns to a safe range. Severe hypoglycemia, characterized by disorientation or loss of consciousness, requires immediate administration of glucagon, an emergency hormone that raises blood sugar.
Conversely, hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, causes symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. If blood sugar levels are very high, it is important to check for ketones, which are byproducts of fat breakdown that can accumulate when there isn’t enough insulin. The presence of ketones indicates a risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication. Corrective insulin doses, as advised by a healthcare provider, are used to lower high blood sugar. Seeking prompt medical attention is important for persistent high blood sugar levels, especially if accompanied by moderate to large ketones, as DKA can be life-threatening.
Holistic Health and Preventative Measures
Beyond daily glucose management, a comprehensive approach to self-care for type 1 diabetes involves holistic health and preventative measures. Regular medical check-ups with a multidisciplinary healthcare team are important for well-being. This includes routine visits to:
- An endocrinologist for diabetes management.
- An ophthalmologist for eye exams to detect and prevent retinopathy.
- A podiatrist for foot care to prevent nerve damage and infections.
- A nephrologist for kidney health monitoring.
Addressing mental and emotional well-being is also an important component of living with type 1 diabetes. The daily demands of managing the condition can lead to stress, burnout, or depression. Seeking support from mental health professionals, support groups, or trusted individuals can help manage the psychological impact.
Managing diabetes during illness, or “sick day management,” requires specific adjustments. During periods of illness, blood glucose levels can become unpredictable, often rising due to stress hormones. This necessitates:
- More frequent blood glucose monitoring.
- Adjusting insulin doses as directed by a healthcare provider.
- Ensuring adequate hydration.
- Checking for ketones, especially if blood sugar is elevated.
Preventative care extends to general health practices to minimize complication risk. Staying up-to-date on vaccinations, including the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine, is important for individuals with diabetes who may be more susceptible to infections. Maintaining good dental hygiene helps prevent gum disease, which can impact blood sugar control. Avoiding smoking is also important, as it increases the risk of diabetes-related complications affecting the heart, kidneys, and nerves.