Diabetes (Type 1)
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin therapy and careful daily management. With the right support, people with Type 1 diabetes live full, active lives — and continuity of care is especially important for those managing the condition abroad.
Speak to an English-speaking endocrinologist about your diabetes care. No referral needed.
Book NowAppointments available within 24 hours
Need to renew your insulin or diabetes medication? We make it easy online.
Request PrescriptionReviewed by a licensed doctor
On this page
This page provides general health information only. If you suspect diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), seek emergency care immediately.
What is Type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune attack on the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. Without insulin, the body cannot use glucose for energy and begins breaking down fat — a process that produces ketones and can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening emergency if untreated.
Type 1 diabetes most commonly develops in childhood or early adulthood, though it can occur at any age. It is distinct from Type 2 diabetes in its cause, mechanism, and the absolute requirement for insulin therapy.
Symptoms at onset
- Excessive thirst and frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss despite eating normally
- Fatigue, weakness, and blurred vision
- Fruity-smelling breath (a sign of ketones)
- Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in DKA
DKA is a medical emergency. If you or someone with Type 1 diabetes is vomiting, severely dehydrated, confused, or has very high blood glucose with ketones, call 112 immediately.
Daily management
- Insulin therapy — multiple daily injections (MDI) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (insulin pump)
- Blood glucose monitoring — finger-prick testing or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices
- Carbohydrate counting — matching insulin doses to carbohydrate intake at meals
- Regular HbA1c testing — to assess average blood glucose control over 3 months
- Annual review — including eye, foot, kidney, and cardiovascular checks to detect complications early
Long-term complications
Poorly controlled blood glucose over time increases the risk of serious complications including retinopathy (eye damage), nephropathy (kidney damage), neuropathy (nerve damage), and cardiovascular disease. Good glucose control significantly reduces these risks — which is why regular monitoring and specialist reviews are so important.
When to see a doctor
Existing patients should maintain regular reviews — at least annually — to monitor control and screen for complications. Contact a doctor if you are experiencing frequent hypoglycaemia, poor blood glucose control, or any new symptoms. People who have moved abroad should re-establish care with a local provider as quickly as possible.
Speak to an English-speaking doctor today
No referral, no waiting room. Online consultations available within 24 hours.
How eMedClinic can help
Our endocrinologists provide diabetes reviews, insulin management consultations, and ongoing monitoring for Type 1 diabetes. We are particularly well placed to support expats who have recently moved to Portugal or Spain and need to continue their diabetes care without interruption while navigating a new healthcare system.
Ready to speak to a doctor?
English-speaking specialists online. No referral, no waiting room.