Know the early warning signs: the 4Ts of type 1 diabetes
Every day, eight Australians are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) – a life-long autoimmune condition which causes the body to stop producing insulin.
It’s vital that individuals, parents and carers are aware of the early signs and symptoms of T1D to ensure treatment is started before experiencing serious health complications.
However, the symptoms of T1D are often easy to dismiss or frequently mistaken for another health issue leading to a delay in diagnosis. So we’ve broken down some key early signs to be aware of.
The 4Ts of T1D
- Thirst: Being extremely thirsty and not being able to quench thirst, no matter how much water you drink.
- Tiredness: Feeling more tired than normal.
- Toilet: Going to the bathroom more frequently, or bedwetting in a child who is usually dry.
- Thinner: Weight loss and looking thinner than normal.
Other symptoms to be aware of include:
- fruity-smelling breath
- blurred vision
- increased appetite
- nausea and vomiting
- slow healing wounds and cuts.
If you notice you or a loved one experiencing the 4Ts or other related symptoms, it’s important to visit your GP and get tested for T1D. Delays in diagnosis can lead to serious health complications and a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
A quick and easy blood glucose test from a GP can be all it takes to get a diagnosis.
For more information on T1D, including personal stories from the community, research updates, and fun ways you can get involved to support those impacted by the condition, sign up to our monthly newsletter.
