Type 1 Diabetes

Home Treatment

People who have type 1 diabetes need to work closely with their health professionals to find the right balance of diet, insulin, and exercise to keep their blood sugar levels within a target range. That combination will vary over time, especially for children.

Daily treatment for diabetes includes:

  • Taking multiple insulin injections or using an insulin pump.
  • Eating a healthful diet that spreads carbohydrate throughout the day.
  • Getting physical activity.
  • Checking blood sugar levels several times a day and, when necessary, during the night.

Other steps to take

People with type 1 diabetes also need to:

  • Wear medical identification at all times so that, in case of emergency, health professionals can see that they have diabetes.
  • Treat high and low blood sugar levels quickly to prevent an emergency.
  • Take extra care of their feet, gums, and teeth to prevent problems that may develop because of high blood sugar.
  • Know how to adjust their diet or insulin doses when they are sick or become pregnant.
  • Have regular medical checkups to monitor the disease and adjust treatment as needed.

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Author: Robin Parks, MSLast Updated: November 21, 2006
Medical Review: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology & Metabolism

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