What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is when your pancreas is unable to make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body absorb and use the glucose, or sugar, in the food you eat. Glucose is a key energy source. Without insulin, your body can’t perform its usual functions.
People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin to prevent health risks that occur from high blood sugar, also called hyperglycaemia.
Your GP plays a vital role in your ongoing care and can help you manage your condition, find specialists and educate your family and carers.
What will my GP do now for my type 1 diabetes?
Your GP will see you regularly to check your blood sugar and discuss any issues. Your GP will also:
- Talk to you about healthy lifestyle tips, such as weight, diet and exercise
- Discuss any distress or anxiety around your health
- Assess for heart disease risk factors
- Give you support to manage at home
- Help you learn what to do if you develop high or low blood sugar
- Check for the presence of other diseases
- Develop a treatment plan to help you manage your care
- Talk to you about pregnancy planning, when appropriate
- Help you learn about your driving risk
- Complete any specialist referrals that may be needed
What can I do for my type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes requires daily, ongoing care. Follow your GP’s advice about insulin injections or a pump. Learn how to check your blood glucose levels.
Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and check your blood glucose levels often.
Always carry carbohydrates with you and carry ID that states you are diabetic. Keep a record of all episodes of low blood sugar. Ask your GP for a specialist referral if you need extra support.
