November is National Diabetes Month. Diabetes mellitus, as it’s officially known, actually manifests itself
in a few ways. One of these manners is known as Type 1 Diabetes.

Also known as juvenile diabetes, this is caused by the autoimmune destruction of beta cells in the
pancreas that produce insulin. The only proven way to treat this type of diabetes is by receiving
injections of insulin. However, most people who have type 1 diabetes are usually healthy otherwise.

Unfortunately, type 1 diabetes is a life-long disease, and although it’s easily treatable, it is un-curable so
far. With the proper education and awareness, a person with diabetes can live a full and productive life,
with little-to-no-interference from their condition.

The injections of insulin can be rough for some people, and many times complications are associated
with the balance of insulin in the system. Low blood sugar can cause seizures or unconsciousness, often
resulting in hospitalization. Having high blood sugar can have long term damaging effects to other
organs, such as the eyes and joints, as well as making the patient feel constantly tired.

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes are: frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, and rapid
weight loss.

Some of the complications that can arise from poorly-managed cases of type 1 diabetes include heart
disease, diabetic neuropathy (damage to the nervous system), and diabetic retinopathy (damage to the
retina) which can eventually lead to blindness.

If you are concerned you might have diabetes mellitus, contact your personal health care practitioner.

If you have already been diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, see our catalog, or visist www.ncescatalog.com for a complete list of resources and tools that will help you live with Type 1 Diabetes.