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Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that destroys blood sugar regulation by attacking the pancreas’s beta cells that produce insulin. In this article, we will delve into the science behind type 1 diabetes and explore how genetic and environmental factors determine its development and how this disease affects the body, particularly in children.
Also Read: Glucose Absorption in Children vs. Adults with Diabetes
How Type 1 Diabetes Develops
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is primarily an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. T-cells, part of the immune system, mistakenly identify and destroy these beta cells, resulting in their deficiency.
It leads to elevated blood glucose levels or hyperglycemia because glucose from the bloodstream cannot penetrate cells without sufficient insulin.
Although the immediate trigger for this autoimmune response is not well understood, it is known to relate directly to both genetic and environmental contributions (R). Genetic predispositions have been suggested through markers that include human leukocyte antigens (HLA) genes, particularly DQA and DQB genes (R).
These are highly correlated with increased susceptibility to T1D. Environmental triggers have also included viral infections, diet, or stress as triggers that may initiate or stimulate the autoimmune process.
The course of type 1 diabetes is highly heterogeneous. Some patients experience rapid β-cell destruction (R), often apparent within months in the early years in some but may be manifested in the later years, among others. The decline may be slow, requiring years to contribute to significant symptoms.
Autoantibodies to insulin, glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), and other pancreatic proteins are commonly found in the disease (R), suggesting that they may represent early markers of the disease and can be present before the onset of hyperglycemia.
In the early stage of the disease, symptoms may be subtle. Still, as more β-cells are destroyed and insulin levels decline to clinically meaningful values, more pronounced symptoms like weight loss, polydipsia or excessive thirst, polyuria or frequent urination, and fatigue may become apparent.
Failure to produce enough insulin can lead to ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition in which fat breakdown leads to the formation of ketones that create a blood acidity that must be immediately corrected.
Also Read: Type 1 Diabetes in Children: Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Conclusion
Understanding the mechanisms behind type 1 diabetes can help diagnose and manage it earlier. Whether it’s the immune system attacking the beta cells or the complications following hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis, these T1D developments are closely monitored and treated.
Though research is constantly providing triggers to this in the form of genetic and environmental factors, it becomes vital for patients diagnosed with this disease, especially children.
