Type 1 diabetes is often categorized as a disorder of the immune system / immune, because in type 1 diabetes, the immune system destroy insulin-producing cells in pancreas. Insulin-producing cells is the beta cells.
In normal conditions, the immune system will attack and fortify the body from bacteria and other substances or viruses that infiltrate into the body. However, in type 1 diabetes, with no definite reason, the immune system attacks the pancreas and destroys the beta cells and obstructed the production of insulin hormone.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body lacks insulin, so glucose (blood sugar) rise to above normal. Insulin serves to absorb nutrients and sugar in the blood, then circulate it to the various cells of the body to be used as an energy source.
Patients with type 1 diabetes produce insulin only in very small amounts or even not at all, it cause blood glucose (hyperglycemia) increased and cells of the body is not getting enough energy, and this condition can lead to:
Dehydration
High levels of sugar in the blood will increase the frequency of urination (urination) as a reaction to reduce sugar levels. When the blood sugar out with urine, the body will lose a lot of water, resulting in dehydration.
Losing weight
Blood sugar (glucose) is the energy source for the body. Glucose is wasted with urine also contains a lot of nutrients and calories that the human body. Therefore, patients with type 1 diabetes will also lose weight drastically.
Damage to the body
The high levels of sugar in the blood will cause damage to body system. This condition will also damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, kidneys and heart. People with diabetes are at high risk for heart attack and stroke.
