Understanding Type 1 diabetes INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Jan. 22, 2025, was a day that changed the household of Storm Track 8 meteorologist Marcus Bailey forever. That’s when his now 13-year-old daughter, Viana, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. After several days of Viana not feeling well a nd missing school, which was very unusual, they took her to a doctor, Marcus says. After a few quick tests and a trip to Riley Hospital for Children, she was diagnosed as a Type 1 diabetic. Viana Bailey is a Type 1 diabetic. (Provided Photo/Marcus Bailey) WISH-TV Medical Expert Dr. Janel Gordon talked with Marcus on Thursday about Viana and the facts about Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic, lifelong autoimmune condition in which the pancreas (an organ deep in the back of the abdomen) makes little or no insulin (a hormone). Globally, over 9 million individuals are affected, including almost 2 million Americans. The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is unknown. Often, the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing islet cells in the pancreas. Genetics, environmental exposure, or exposure to a virus may play a role. Ultimately, the body does not produce enough insulin. Insulin allows glucose in our blood to enter our cells and be used for energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels can rise to high levels and lead to significant complications and death. Type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood, peaking between ages 4-7 years old or 10-14 years old; however, it can develop in adults as well. Common signs and symptoms: Excessive thirst. Increased urination. Bed-wetting in children with no previous occurrence or many years since the last occurrence. Extreme hunger despite eating an adequate amount of food. Unexplained weight loss. Irritability or mood changes. Fatigue. Weakness. Blurry vision. Genitourinary infections. Symptoms typically progress over days, weeks and months. Emergent signs and symptoms: Fruity-smelling breath Rapid breathing Confusion Abdominal pain, nausea and/or vomiting Diagnosis can be determined with blood and urine tests to assess blood sugar levels, the presence of antibodies, and urinary ketones. Once diagnosed, individuals should establish care with an endocrinologist, see a registered dietitian, and a certified diabetes educator. It is important to establish a care plan with your child’s school or place of employment. Treatment involves daily blood sugar monitoring and insulin injections or an insulin pump. Complications of persistent high blood sugar: Cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure). Nerve damage (neuropathy) with tingling or numbness. Kidney disease, with some individuals developing end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis or kidney transplant. Eye disease, including retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, glaucoma and blindness. Dry skin Skin and wound infections from poor circulation and nerve damage, which may lead to amputation if not properly treated. Gum and tooth disease. Pregnancy complications. Erectile dysfunction. Mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. Tips for decreasing the risk of diabetes complications: Establish care with a trusted physician and healthcare providers. Manage your blood sugar with medication and lifestyle (nutrition, exercise, restful sleep, stress management, limiting/avoiding alcohol, cigarettes and drugs). Routine screenings and immunizations. Seek care for signs and symptoms that concern you. Resources Breakthrough T1D (formerly, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) American Diabetes Association American Diabetes Association Type 1 diabetes self-care manual ...read more read less