Our providers, including diabetes specialists, diagnose and treat Type 1 diabetes. We emphasize education, self-management and family involvement.
What is Type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes, formerly known as juvenile diabetes, happens when the body makes little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control blood sugar (glucose) levels. Without it, blood sugar levels build up. Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in young people, but it can also be diagnosed in adults.
Type 1 diabetes symptoms
- Extreme thirst
- Hunger
- Feeling tired and rundown
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Frequent urination or bedwetting
- Blurry vision
- Racing heart
- Weight loss
- Fast, deep breathing
Type 1 diabetes treatment
Type 1 diabetes can’t be cured. But it can be controlled through medicine, monitoring, diet and exercise. Someone with Type 1 diabetes has to take insulin.
Find a diabetes specialist
You may need to see an endocrinologist or diabetes specialist. Talk to your provider or pediatrician about a referral. It’s important to find a specialist who fits your needs and can help manage your care. MaineHealth works with several provider groups that provide diabetes care.
The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital offers access to promising new treatments through TrialNet, a national network of 18 clinical centers dedicated to the study, prevention and early treatment of Type 1 diabetes.
Diabetes management
MaineHealth offers diabetes specialists and system-wide services for diabetes:
- We have inpatient and outpatient diabetes care for all ages
- Our services include diabetes education and classes, and nutritional guidance We offer specialized services including wound care for diabetic ulcers, endocrinology, weight loss programs and vascular care
Learn more about taking control of your diabetes
At MaineHealth, we give people with diabetes the tools and knowledge to manage their care and make healthy lifestyle choices. Check with your local provider or community hospital to learn about diabetes resources and care close to you.
