Type 1 diabetes has been historically referred to as juvenile diabetes. If you ask anyone on the street what they know about type 1 diabetes, they are likely to say, “it’s the diabetes kids get.” The idea of type 1 diabetes occurring only in childhood is no longer medically accurate, however many medical doctors (even my own maternal-fetal medicine doctor who specialized in diabetes in pregnancy!) continue to believe it. I recall sitting across from that doctor telling me there was no way at my age I could be anything but insulin dependent type II. He was wrong, and my blood tests proved it.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic medical illness in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Insulin is a necessary hormone that assists glucose (sugar) to enter cells to produce energy. There are many factors, many of which are still unknown, that contribute to type 1 diabetes. What we are finding now, is that type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, and we are seeing an increase in its prevalence since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The reason why diagnosing diabetes is so difficult in adulthood is that symptoms can mimic illnesses or other medical diagnoses that are more common in adults.
It is important to realize that the early signs of diabetes can develop quickly, especially in adulthood. Some of the symptoms to look out for include:
1. Frequent urination
2. Increased appetite
3. Extreme thirst
4. Unexpected weight loss
5. Drowsiness or tiredness
6. Difficulties breathing
7. Vison changes
If you have high blood sugar and it gets left untreated, you are at risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be a life-threatening condition. Seek out medication attention if you are exhibiting these warning signs.
If you are an adult experiencing these symptoms don’t let the name “juvenile diabetes” fool you. Doctors are often less familiar with type 1 diabetes and seeking education and support by your diabetes team can be a vital part of your treatment.
Dr. Amanda Comstock is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in type 1 diabetes, and lives with type 1 diabetes herself.
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