Chronic illnesses

[chideltjen]

Originally posted by Lady Pi Phi
I have Diabetes Mellitus. Also known as Type 1 Diabetes, Juvenille Diabetes and Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM).

Type 1 Diabetes is when the the body produces very little insulin or non at all. Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy. When there is no insulin, the glucose builds up in the blood stream causing a toxin to build in the blood called Ketones. If the blood glucose gets to high, it is fatal.

No one knows the exact cause of Type 1 Diabetes, but there are several theories. There is no cure.
Type 1 is controled through synthetic (for most people, although some people do take Bovine and Pork insulin) insulin to keep the blood sugar regulated. This is done through injections. Type 1 diabetics cannot control their blood sugars through oral medication. Blood glucose (blood sugar) must be monitored. Exercise is also important in regulating blood sugars.

Sometimes the blood sugars can drop too low. This is called a hypoglycemic reaction. Fast acting sugars (like juice or pop) should be taken to bring a blood sugar back up. These are caused when there is too much insulin and not enough food. They can also be brought on through exercise. A high blood sugar (Hyperglycemic reaction) is cause when there is too much sugar (food) and not enough insulin.

ETA: About 10 percent of people with Diabetes have Type 1. 90 percent of people with Diabetes have Type 2. Also, 3.5 percent of pregnancies can result in Gestational Diabetes.

Ditto. I've got the same thing. Been so for about 22 years now.