Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes:

Treatment for Type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is the substitution of insulin combined with careful monitoring of blood glucose levels.

Without insulin, diabetic ketoacidosis can develop and may result in coma or even death sometimes.

Emphasis is given on the Lifestyle Modifications (diet and exercise). Type 1 treatment must be prolonged indefinitely.

Treatment does not considerably impair normal activities, if sufficient patient training, awareness, appropriate care, regularity in testing and dosing of insulin is taken.

However, treatment is burdensome for patients, and insulin is replaced in a non-physiological manner, and is therefore far from ideal. The average glucose level for the type 1 patient should be as close to normal (80–120 mg/dl, 4–6 mmol/l).

Some medical practitioners suggest up to 140-150 mg/dl (7-7.5 mmol/l) for those having trouble with lower values, such as frequent hypoglycemic events. Values above 200 mg/dl (10 mmol/l) are sometimes accompanied by discomfort and frequent urination leading to dehydration.

The values above 300 mg/dl (15 mmol/l) usually require treatment and may lead to ketoacidosis, although is not immediately life-threatening. Although, low levels of blood glucose, called hypoglycemia, may lead to seizures or episodes of unconsciousness and absolutely must be treated immediately.