Type 1 diabetes treatment

Insulin

You will usually take insulin in one of two ways:

• injections, using an insulin pen. Most people take a long-acting insulin once or twice a day, plus fast-acting insulin with meals
• an insulin pump, a small device that gives insulin through a thin tube under your skin all day

Your team will help you work out your doses. Learning to count carbohydrates helps you match insulin to what you eat.

Checking your glucose

NICE says everyone with type 1 diabetes should be offered continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). A small sensor on your arm or tummy measures your glucose all the time and sends it to your phone or a reader. This means far fewer finger-prick tests.

Hybrid closed loop systems

A hybrid closed loop system links a sensor to a pump and adjusts your insulin automatically. NICE has recommended them for many people with type 1 diabetes, and the NHS is rolling them out over several years. Ask your diabetes team whether you can get one.

Education courses

Courses such as DAFNE teach you how to adjust insulin, count carbohydrates and manage exercise, illness and alcohol. NICE says everyone with type 1 diabetes should be offered a course. Ask your team.

Hypos (low blood sugar)

A hypo is when your glucose drops below 4 mmol/L. Signs include feeling shaky, sweaty, hungry, confused or irritable.

1. Have 15 to 20g of fast-acting sugar, such as a glass of non-diet fizzy drink or fruit juice, or glucose tablets.
2. Check again after 10 to 15 minutes. If you are still below 4, repeat step 1.
3. When you are above 4, have a snack or meal if one is due.

Being ill

Illness can raise your glucose, even if you are not eating. Follow your sick day rules: never stop your insulin, check your glucose and ketones more often, and drink plenty of fluids. Contact your team or NHS 111 if ketones are high.

Next, read about living well with type 1 diabetes.