Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)

It’s always concerning if you feel that something is not right with your health. So it’s good that you’re looking for answers! Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the pancreas stops producing insulin—a hormone that converts food to energy for your body. Diet or lifestyle are not factors in the onset of type 1 diabetes. Unfortunately there is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes and there is currently no cure.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus symptoms

The reality is that signs of type 1 diabetes usually develop suddenly. And, that’s why it can be easy to brush them off or mistake them as something else. But the more you know about recognizing the warning signs, the more prepared you will
be to seek treatment. So here’s what you should look for:

Fruity or sweet-smelling breath:
High level of ketones in the blood can lead to an unusual wine-like odor in your breath. If left untreated, this can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which is life-threatening.

Extreme thirst:
If you’re urinating more frequently, it can lead to dehydration and—ultimately—make you drink more
liquids than usual.

Increased appetite:
Suddenly starving all the time? It may be because your body isn’t able to get the proper energy it needs from food.

Unintentional weight loss:
If your body is losing sugar in your urine instead of absorbing it, you may find that you lose weight without trying—even when eating more.

Other early signs of type 1 diabetes

Some other T1D symptoms that you should be on the look-out for include feeling lethargic or drowsy; heavy or labored breathing; and—eventually—unconsciousness. Ideally, it won’t get to that level. At the end of the day it’s important to listen to your body, recognize the warning signs and see your doctor as soon as possible.

Your support is more critical than ever