Symptoms of type 1 diabetes and how it's diagnosed

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes

The most common symptoms of type 1 diabetes are:

• peeing more than usual, especially at night
• feeling very thirsty and drinking more than usual
• feeling very tired
• losing weight without trying to or looking thinner

Children may have heavier nappies or they may start wetting the bed because they're peeing more.

The easiest way to remember these symptoms is the 4 Ts: toilet, thirsty, tired, thinner.

Other symptoms can include:

• blurred vision
• breath that smells sweet or fruity (like nail polish remover or pear drop sweets)
• cuts and wounds taking longer to heal
• getting frequent infections or infections that do not get better, such as thrush or nappy rash

The symptoms develop quickly, over a few days or weeks.

If it's not treated, it can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.

Type 1 diabetes usually starts in children and young adults, but it can happen at any age.

You're more likely to get it if you have other problems with your immune system (autoimmune conditions), or if others in your family have type 1 diabetes or other autoimmune conditions.

The symptoms are similar to type 2 diabetes, but type 2 diabetes usually develops more slowly and is more common in older people.

How type 1 diabetes is diagnosed

If a GP thinks you or your child could have type 1 diabetes, they'll do a finger-prick test to check for high blood glucose. They may also test a sample of pee.

If tests show you or your child might have type 1 diabetes, you'll need to see a specialist in hospital to start treatment and have more tests. This is usually on the same day.

A diabetes specialist will usually confirm whether you have type 1 diabetes or another type of diabetes based on your age, weight and symptoms.

If it's not clear which type you have, or the tests do not show you have diabetes, you may need extra blood tests.

Children may also be unwell with things like a cold, tonsilitis, tummy pain or nappy rash when they first get diabetes symptoms. This can make it harder to diagnose.

If you think your child might have diabetes, you can ask a GP to do a finger-prick glucose test. It can help to bring a sample of your child's pee to the GP appointment.

If you're told you have type 1 diabetes

If you or your child are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about how it will affect you.

A team of specialists will help you get the right treatment and support. You can ask them any questions you may have.

A diabetes nurse in hospital or at a clinic will show you the things you need to do to start managing the condition.