Best Type 1 diabetes Doctors in Chennai

Type 1 diabetes, commonly referred to as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a persistent health condition where one's immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact aetiology remains widely unexplained; nevertheless, it is presumed the onset is primarily triggered by an autoimmune reaction. When this occurs, the pancreas cannot produce the required insulin leading to elevated blood sugar levels, known medically as hyperglycaemia.

Chennai's growing public health awareness initiatives may be leading to the identification of more cases of Type 1 diabetes. Fortunately, the city hosts some of India’s most prestigious health institutions. Apollo Hospitals in Chennai stand out, providing expert doctors for insulin-dependent diabetes and being recognised for having some of the best doctors for juvenile diabetes.

Types/Stages of Type 1 Diabetes

Broadly classified, there are three subtypes of type 1 diabetes:

• Autoimmune Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: The most common form where these pancreatic cells are attacked by the immune system over time.

• Nonautoimmune Nonfulminant Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: This variant involves a less aggressive assault on pancreatic cells with slower progression and fewer diabetes-related antibodies.

• Nonautoimmune Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes: This severe form leads to rapid and intense harm to pancreatic cells without customary immune system involvement.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes as noted by doctors for autoimmune diabetes include:

• Unusual thirst and dry mouth

• Frequent urination

• Unexplained weight loss

• Increased hunger

• Regular bouts of fatigue

• Blurry vision

Tests to Diagnose Type 1 Diabetes

Diagnosis primarily involves laboratory tests prescribed by doctors for high blood sugar. At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, patients can expect:

• Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1C) Test: This standard blood test indicates average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months.

• Random Blood Sugar Test: A blood sample is collected at a random time to evaluate blood sugar levels.

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test: After an overnight fast, a blood sample is taken to assess fasting blood sugar levels.

• C-Peptide Measurement: Used to discern between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, it measures C-peptide, a byproduct of insulin creation.

• Autoantibodies Testing: This helps confirm an autoimmune cause for diabetes.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Type 1 Diabetes at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai

For those seeking expert care, Apollo Hospitals in Chennai offers a comprehensive treatment regimen for autoimmune diabetes, managed by highly qualified and experienced doctors

• Insulin Therapy: Patients are administered insulin either through injections or an insulin pump.

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is advised for optimum management of the condition.

• Medical Nutrition Therapy: Dieticians provide individualised meal planning to help manage blood sugar levels.

• Physical Activity Recommendations: Regular exercise aids in controlling weight and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

• Pancreas Transplant: In severe cases, a pancreas transplant is considered by doctors for insulin-dependent diabetes. However, this procedure carries significant risks and is typically only explored when other treatment methods have failed.