Symptoms of
type 1 diabetes
are caused by the buildup of glucose in the blood where it cannot be used by cells for energy. Problems may be:
- Urinating often
- Being very thirsty or hungry
- Feeling very tired and weak
- Blurry vision
- Losing weight without trying
- Belly pain
Severe symptoms can lead to
diabetic ketoacidosis. This is when glucose levels rise and the body starts to break down fat to use as energy instead. This makes a by-product called ketone bodies. They are made up of acids that can build up in the body and cause these additional type 1 diabetes symptoms:
- Problems breathing
- Belly pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Fruity breath odor
- Dry skin and mouth
This problem can be deadly and must be treated right away.
Last reviewed September 2019 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated: 12/8/2020
