This section covers the cause and control of Type I diabetes and the consequences of failed blood glucose regulation.
Diabetes and loss of glucose control
Diabetes occurs when homeostatic regulation of blood glucose has failed or deteriorated, allowing blood glucose concentration to remain too high.
Consequences can include:
glucose in the urine;
dehydration;
fatigue.
Cause of Type I diabetes
In Type I diabetes, an autoimmune response attacks the insulin-producing β cells of the pancreas. The damage leaves the pancreas unable to provide the insulin needed for normal blood-glucose control.
Type I diabetes often develops during childhood.
1
Cause
The immune system attacks pancreatic β cells.
2
Consequence
Normal insulin production is lost, so blood-glucose regulation cannot operate effectively.
3
Control
Insulin is supplied by injection, with the required amount adjusted in relation to carbohydrate intake and exercise.
Exam Tip: Build the explanation as a causal chain: an autoimmune attack damages β cells → insulin production is lost → normal control of blood glucose fails. Do not confuse this with insulin resistance.