Whilst there is no cure for Type 1 Diabetes, there is treatment available (Insulin) and there are ways to help you manage your blood sugar levels and avoid complications.

It is not easy, but it’s doable.

In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin which is vital for converting glucose into energy. People with type 1 diabetes need to do the job of the pancreas and replace the insulin via insulin injections or an insulin pump. The insulin acts to reduce the level of glucose in the blood.

Type 1 diabetes is a life threatening condition which needs to be closely managed with daily care. Type 1 diabetes is managed with:

• Insulin replacement through lifelong insulin injections (up to 6 every day) or use of an insulin pump

• Monitoring of blood glucose levels regularly (as often as needed, usually at least 6 times a day, or via a CGM (continuous glucose monitor)

Insulin Pump

The Pump (worn by user 24/7) holds a reservoir of insulin and delivers both the basal and the bolus insulin (fast acting ) via the infusion set that is inserted into the body and changed every 2-3 days.

Multiple Daily Injections (MDI)

If not using a pump, then multiple daily infections are required of a fast acting insulin and a long acting insulin. Most people will use a pen instead of a syringe, but both are valid and available options.

Blood Glucose Monitoring

Blood glucose monitoring means checking the concentration of glucose in your blood. To check your blood glucose levels, you need a blood glucose meter, a finger pricking device with lancets and blood glucose monitoring strips. You can also monitor your levels using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM or FGM).

The aim of BGL monitoring is to keep blood glucose levels (BGLs) within a specified target range recommended for optimal health with type 1. The recommended targets for people with type 1 diabetes in Australia are between 4.0–7.0 mmol/L before meals, and 5.0–10.0 mmol/L two hours after meals. By monitoring your bgls, you can better understand the link between blood glucose, food, exercise and insulin/other medications you may have been prescribed.

The pattern of changes in blood glucose levels can alert you and your diabetes health professionals to a possible need for a change in your insulin doses.