Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

When To Call A Professional

Call your health care professional if you experience a sudden increase in thirst and urination, with or without vomiting, nausea, fatigue or confusion. Unexplained weight loss always should be reported to a physician.

If you (or your child) have type 1 diabetes, see your doctor regularly (as your doctor advises) to make sure that you are keeping good control of your blood sugar, and to be checked for early signs of complications such as heart disease, eye problems and skin infections. Your doctor most likely will suggest that you also visit other specialists regularly, such as a podiatrist to check your feet and an ophthalmologist to check your eyes for signs of diabetes complications.

Prognosis

People with type 1 diabetes generally adjust quickly to the time and attention that is needed to monitor blood sugar, treat the disease, and maintain a normal lifestyle. As time goes on, the risk of complications is substantial, but can be reduced greatly if blood glucose levels are strictly monitored and controlled.

Additional Info

American Diabetes Association ATTN: National Call Center 1701 N. Beauregard St. Alexandria, VA 22311 Toll-Free: (800) 342-2383 http://www.diabetes.org/

American Dietetic Association 120 South Riverside Plaza Suite 2000 Chicago, IL 60606-6995 Toll-Free: (800) 877-1600 http://www.eatright.org/

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse 1 Information Way Bethesda, MD 20892-3560 Phone: (301) 654-3327 Toll-Free: (800) 860-8747 www.niddk.nih.gov/health/diabetes/ndic.htm

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders Office of Communications and Public Liaison Building 31, Room 9A04 Center Drive, MSC 2560 Bethesda, MD 20892-2560 Phone: (301) 496-3583 Fax: (301) 496-7422 http://www.niddk.nih.gov/

Weight-Control Information Network 1 Win Way Bethesda, MD 20892-3665 Phone: (202) 828-1025 Toll-Free: (877) 946-4627 Fax: (202) 828-1028 E-Mail: win@info.niddk.nih http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/nutrit/win.htm