Type 1 diabetes signs and symptoms Knowing the four early warning signs of type 1 diabetes could save your child’s life Did you know that 90% of people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have no family history of the condition?1 In children, the onset of type 1 diabetes is usually abrupt and, if not treated, can be fatal. That’s why being aware of the early warning signs is important and can save the life of your child or someone else you know. Use the 4Ts to help remember the early warning signs of type 1 diabetes Tired Unexplained or excessive fatigue. Thirsty A thirst that can’t be quenched. Thinner Sudden or unexplained weight loss. Toilet Going to the toilet a lot. In children, symptoms can often develop over days or weeks. Why early diagnosis matters Recognising the signs of type 1 diabetes early can help prevent serious complications. If type 1 diabetes is missed or left untreated, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious and potentially life-threatening medical emergency that often requires hospitalisation. A prompt diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of DKA. What is type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas cannot make insulin. This happens because the body’s immune system destroys the beta cells in the pancreas. It is the beta cells that make insulin. This results in too much glucose, a type of sugar found in the bloodstream. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not yet known. Early screening and treatment during stage 2 of type 1 diabetes can delay type 1 from progressing. Currently, nothing can be done to prevent or cure type 1 diabetes, but researchers are working on this. Diabetes Australia supports research into early screening and treatment of type 1 diabetes. If type 1 diabetes is managed well, you can continue to lead a healthy life. What should I do if I notice the 4Ts? If you notice one or more of the 4Ts: Make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible. Find a health professional. Explain the symptoms you’ve noticed. Ask about testing for type 1 diabetes. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen or the person becomes unwell. Frequently asked questions What causes type 1 diabetes? The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known, but we do know it has a strong genetic link. While type 1 diabetes cannot be completely prevented, it can sometimes be delayed in those who are identified early through screening. People who develop diabetes may have one or a number of genes which make type 1 diabetes more likely, then some sort of environmental trigger occurs to start the autoimmune reaction. Examples of triggers include an infection or a high level of stress. Triggers are not always easy to identify. We know that type 1 diabetes has nothing to do with lifestyle, although maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important in helping to manage all types of diabetes, including type 1 diabetes. Source: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/type-1-diabetes/ Can adults develop type 1 diabetes? Yes. Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age. How quickly can type 1 diabetes develop? In children, symptoms can appear over days or weeks and should be checked promptly. How is type 1 diabetes managed? Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin2 injections several times a day or the use of an insulin pump. Insulin can’t be taken as a tablet as it would be digested down to its building blocks, amino acids, by the body’s normal digestive process before it could work effectively. Blood glucoselevels can be measured using a blood glucose monitor with finger pricking or a continuous glucose monitor which measures glucose in the body’s interstitial fluid.3 Following Australia’s national guidelines on healthy eating4 and exercise5 applies to all Australians, including people living with type 1 diabetes. Learning to recognise and count carbohydrate will assist with your accurate dosing of insulin. Does type 1 diabetes run in families? Having a family history of type 1 diabetes increases your relative risk of developing the condition, though about 90% of people diagnosed have no family history at all. Source: https://breakthrought1d.org.au/what-is-t1d/causes/ What is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)? DKA happens when there isn’t enough insulin for the body to use glucose the preferred source of energy. The body uses fat for energy instead. This makes a build-up of acids in the blood called ketones. If left untreated, the build up of ketones can lead to DKA. Common signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) include extreme thirst, vomiting, stomach pain, rapid or deep breathing, tiredness or confusion, dehydration, and a fruity or sweet smell on the breath. Source: https://youth.ndss.com.au/reduce-the-risk-of-ketoacidosis/ Is diabetic ketoacidosis an emergency? Yes. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious condition that needs immediate treatment. If someone is experiencing symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis or becomes confused or unconscious, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/type-1-diabetes What should I do if I notice the 4Ts? If you notice one or more of the signs, see your doctor immediately. Free resources for schools and parents If you’re reading this, you’re probably well aware of the importance of knowing the 4Ts. We’ve created a bunch of handy resources you can share on your social media channels, with your school and sports clubs – anywhere you think families will benefit from hearing the message. Printable A3 poster Print this 4Ts poster and put it up around your school, sports club, medical centre or in your local community. Help us get the word out about the 4Ts. Remember to ask permission before putting these up. Download the 4Ts poster Printable colouring sheet Perfect for kids, this 4Ts colouring sheet is a great way to learn about an important message while also having fun. Download and print your copy today. Download the 4Ts colouring sheet Kid-friendly presentation Designed for your child to present at their school. Children can share their journey with type 1 diabetes and important information with their classmates. Download the slides to help guide you, however you are welcome to edit and add as you see fit. Download the 4Ts presentation Share the knowledge Social media tiles Share this important information on your own social media profile. We have created a selection of templates for you to upload and share. Don’t forget to tag us! Download resources We’d love to see you sharing the message in action Thank you for helping us get the word out about the 4Ts. Send through any photos and videos to [email protected] or tag us on social media. References: 1. Emily K. Sims, Rachel E.J. Besser, Colin Dayan, Cristy Geno Rasmussen, Carla Greenbaum, Kurt J. Griffin, William Hagopian, Mikael Knip, Anna E. Long, Frank Martin, Chantal Mathieu, Marian Rewers, Andrea K. Steck, John M. Wentworth, Stephen S. Rich, Olga Kordonouri, Anette-Gabriele Ziegler, Kevan C. Herold, for the NIDDK Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet Study Group; Screening for Type 1 Diabetes in the General Population: A Status Report and Perspective. Diabetes 1 April 2022; 71 (4): 610–623. 2. Source: Overland, J. (2019). Type 1 diabetes: The overarching principles of insulin therapy [Review of Type 1 diabetes: The overarching principles of insulin therapy]. Australian Diabetes Educator, 22(1). 3. Source: ADS- Living Evidence Guidelines in Diabetes. (n.d.). Diabetessociety.com.au. https://diabetessociety.com.au/living-guidelines.asp, accessed 14/9/2022. 4. Source: https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/guidelines, accessed 14/9/2022. 5. Source: Australian Government Department of Health. (2021, May 7). Physical Activity and Exercise Guidelines for All Australians. Australian Government Department of Health. https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activity-and-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians, accessed 14/9/2022.
