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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Diabetes, Type 1

Condition: Diabetes, Type 1

Also called: Juvenile Diabetes; Insulin-dependent Diabetes; Brittle Diabetes

In Type 1 diabetes, little or no insulin is produced and the cells cannot get glucose from the bloodstream. The glucose remains in the blood causing high blood glucose, also known as hyperglycemia. Without the insulin, your body cannot use glucose or the energy it supplies.

Causes of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease.  This means that your own body make antibodies against itself, causing gradual damage to an organ – in this case, the pancreas.  Gradual destruction of the pancreas, more specifically the islet cells which make insulin, causes the manifestations of the disease.

Type 1 diabetes has a genetic component meaning that there are families in which multiple generations will be diagnosed with the same disease.  For most people however, when they are diagnosed, there may be no other relatives with the disease.  If you take a thorough history however you may find that other autoimmune diseases run in the family such as thyroid disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, or adrenal insufficiency.

Unlike type 2 diabetes, there is no relationship between diet and weight and the development of type 1 diabetes.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes

Each person may experience the symptoms of type 1 diabetes differently, however unlike type 2 diabetes, the onset of symptoms appears more abrupt and severe. The most common symptoms include but are not limited to:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Weight loss despite not adhering to a strict diet or exercise regimen
  • Frequent bladder or skin infections
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Extreme weakness and fatigue
  • Cuts or injuries that heal slowly

Managing Your Type 1 Diabetes

If you are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes you must take insulin.  Most people with type 1 diabetes take 2 types: a long acting (basal) insulin once daily and a rapid acting (bolus) insulin with each meal.  It is very important not to miss any doses of either type of insulin otherwise you can experience very high blood glucose levels and become very ill.

Some people with type 1 diabetes use insulin pumps which are attached to the abdomen and allow the user to deliver precise amounts of insulin to manage their carbohydrate (sugar) intake and to correct for high blood sugars.

Many people with type 1 diabetes use continuous glucose monitors (CGM) to track their blood sugars, increase awareness of high and low blood sugars, and allow them and their providers to better see their glucose trend information.

Follow Up for Type 1 Diabetes

Most patients with type 1 diabetes will need to see a specialist in diabetes (an endocrinologist) every 3 months. At these visits, their glucose meter, pump, and/or continuous glucose monitor can be downloaded and insulin doses adjusted.  They should bring all of their devices to each visit.

They will also want to discuss screening for eye, kidney, nerve, and heart disease and make sure all lab testing is up to date.

Individuals with Type 1 diabetes should remember to get regular vaccinations, to never smoke tobacco, and to work closely with their endocrinologist if pregnancy is desired to ensure health for both mother and baby.

You should work with your doctor to determine what to do if you are sick (come up with a “sick day plan”) or if your insulin pump is not working (a “back up plan).  You should also be aware of how to use glucagon, a hormone that can be given in the case of a severe hypoglycemic reaction.

Remember that type 1 diabetes is a serious medical condition, but if you work closely with your diabetes team, there is no reason that it has to restrict you from any work, school, or life plan that you choose.

Contents

  • Providers
  • Locations
  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Providers Treating Diabetes, Type 1

Note that every provider listed below may not perform or prescribe all treatments or procedures related to Diabetes, Type 1. Review each provider for availability.

Filter the Providers


Ashley  N. Allen, PA

Ashley N. Allen, PA Physician Assistant

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Elena Ambrogini, M.D., Ph.D.

Elena Ambrogini, M.D., Ph.D. Endocrinologist

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Terri R. Cohen, DPM

Terri R. Cohen, DPM Podiatrist

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Romona L. Davis, M.D.

Romona L. Davis, M.D. Ophthalmologist

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Stephan Dehmel, M.D.

Stephan Dehmel, M.D. Gastroenterologist

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Joseph A. Henske, M.D.

Joseph A. Henske, M.D. Endocrinologist

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Jonell S. Hudson, Pharm.D.

Jonell S. Hudson, Pharm.D. Pharmacist

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Jon D. Oden, M.D.

Jon D. Oden, M.D. Pediatric Endocrinologist

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Andrea S. Tappe, RD

Andrea S. Tappe, RD Dietitian

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Sara G. Tariq, M.D.

Sara G. Tariq, M.D. Internist

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Robert S. Weinstein, M.D.

Robert S. Weinstein, M.D. Endocrinologist

View Profile

Locations Where Providers Treat Diabetes, Type 1

Note that the treatment of Diabetes, Type 1 may not be performed at every location listed below. The list may include locations where the treatment plan is developed during and after a patient visit.

Filter the Locations


Exterior of Outpatient Center

Endocrinology Clinic

4110 Outpatient Circle
Outpatient Center
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-686-8000
New and Returning Patients
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Family Medical Center, North Central

Family Medical Center in Batesville

1993 Harrison St.
Batesville, AR 72501

Appointment Phone Number
870-793-2540
New and Returning Patients
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UAMS Northwest exterior (FMC sign)

Family Medical Center in Fayetteville

1125 N. College Ave.
Fayetteville, AR 72703

Appointment Phone Number
479-521-8260
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions

Family Medical Center in Fort Smith

1301 S. E St.
Fort Smith, AR 72901

Appointment Phone Number
479-785-2431
New and Returning Patients
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UAMS Family Medical Center, East

Family Medical Center in Helena

1393 Highway 242 South
Helena, AR 72342

Appointment Phone Number
870-572-6507
New and Returning Patients
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UAMS Northeast building exterior

Family Medical Center in Jonesboro

311 E. Matthews St.
Jonesboro, AR 72401

Appointment Phone Number
870-972-0063
New and Returning Patients
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Exterior of Family Medical Center - Little Rock

Family Medical Center in Little Rock

521 Jack Stephens Drive
First floor
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-686-6560
New and Returning Patients
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Family Medical Center - Magnolia

Family Medical Center in Magnolia

1617 N. Washington St.
Magnolia, AR 71753

Appointment Phone Number
870-234-7676
New and Returning Patients
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Family Medical Center, Pine Bluff

Family Medical Center in Pine Bluff

1601 W. 40th Ave.
Pine Bluff, AR 71603

Appointment Phone Number
870-541-6000
New and Returning Patients
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NW Hospital exterior

Family Medical Center in Springdale

601 W. Maple Ave.
Suite 102
Springdale, AR 72764

Appointment Phone Number
479-750-6585
New and Returning Patients
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UAMS Family Medical Center, Texarkana

Family Medical Center in Texarkana

3417 U of A Way
Texarkana, AR 71854

Appointment Phone Number
870-779-6000
New and Returning Patients
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exterior of North Street Clinic

Neighborhood Clinic in Fayetteville

1125 N. College Ave.
Fayetteville, AR 72703

Appointment Phone Number
479-713-8701
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions

Areas of Expertise for Diabetes, Type 1

Image of a doctor taking a blood sample from a boy's finger.

Diabetes and Endocrinology Care

At UAMS Health, we want you to feel engaged and empowered about managing your diabetes. We have seen first-hand that the most effective way to manage diabetes i

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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