Brittle diabetes isn’t a term heard all that often, thank goodness, as it’s a terrible condition. But what exactly is it; what happens to cause it? Can it be cured? Is it fatal? Let’s talk about it.
Brittle Diabetes and the Body
This is a kind of type 1 diabetes. Information isn’t always certain as to why it’s caused. However, it results in huge swings in blood sugar; it is also sometimes referred to as “labile diabetes”. Another very apt term is “unstable diabetes”.
If you think about something being brittle, you think it’s easily cracked or broken. A person suffering from brittle diabetes has a very tenuous hold on their blood sugar. It often roller-coasters between extra high (hyperglycemia) and terribly low (hypoglycemia).
As with all type 1 diabetics, insulin is required to help control this disease. It’s a tightrope not easily walked, and this type of diabetic must constantly be vigilant as to what goes in his or her body. Even tiny changes in diet or exercise can set off a wild blood sugar swing. A brittle diabetic can do everything right but still suffer from too high or too low glucose levels.
When Does it Occur?
Brittle diabetes can unfortunately occur at just about any point in our lives. It can be caused by gastrointestinal absorption problems, possibly including bypass surgery.
Something called gastroperesis, which is delayed stomach emptying is also thought to contribute to brittle diabetes.
Finally, insulin absorption problems, drug interactions and hormonal malfunction can also result in type 1 diabetes becoming brittle.
Other Resources
Other posts and resources you might like to read include:
Tags: 
Posts
