Newly Diagnosed

What is type 1 diabetes?

• Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the beta cells in the pancreas are destroyed and can no longer produce insulin to transport the glucose from the blood into the cells of the body for energy. This causes the blood glucose levels in the blood to rise dramatically. People who develop type 1 diabetes will usually seek medical advice quickly as they can become seriously ill form the onset of the disease.
• It is NOT caused by lifestyle factors and can not be prevented.
• Type 1 diabetes accounts for 10 -15% of all cases of diagnosed diabetes.
• 50% of the cases occur in children and young adults, although it can occur at any age.
• Symptoms are often sudden and can be life threatening, they can include: extreme thirst, frequent urination, sudden unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting and constant hunger.

What does it mean for someone diagnosed with type 1 diabetes?

If you or someone you care for has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it is perfectly normal to be experiencing a range of emotions that may be overwhelming.

The good news is diabetes will not prevent you from living a normal life. People with type 1 diabetes have become elite athletes, mountaineers, corporate high-flyers, scientists, medical professionals. There is no reason for diabetes to stop you from being successful in almost any field.

Trying to balance all the requirements of diabetes management can be a challenge. There is much to learn as you begin to understand how your body responds to different foods, physical activity and insulin and how to fit diabetes into your life.

There are many people who can help you to understand and manage your diabetes. At Diabetes SA we have a range of type 1 diabetes programs available to support you.

What to do now?

Diabetes SA has a range of education programs and support services available to ensure your journey with diabetes is well managed.

We will help you take steps to learn what you need to know so that you can independently manage diabetes whilst keeping a close team of Health Professionals on hand to guide you.

Contact us

At Diabetes SA we have a team of Health Care Professionals to assist you with managing your diabetes. Our Health Care Team are available from 9am to 4pm (Monday to Friday) to answer your questions.

Diabetes SA members can book a 30 minute appointment to see one of our Diabetes Educators. Please fill out the booking form or call Diabetes SA on 1300 136 588 to arrange your appointment.

We have a number of education programs designed to give people the information required to manage living with type 1 diabetes.

Information Sheets

Click here to view our Resource Information Sheets.

Other useful diabetes websites

• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Australia
• Reality check
• Diabetes kids and teens
• Diabetes at Women’s and Children’s Hospital
• Diabetes counselling online
• www.hypoactive.org
• Family Voices