When you have type 1 diabetes, your body can sometimes attack itself in other ways too. Let’s learn about these conditions and how we can keep an eye on them.
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid problems are common in people with type 1 diabetes. The thyroid gland, which helps control your metabolism, can be attacked by your immune system. Here are the two main thyroid issues:
- Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism)
- This is when your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones. About 1 in 10 people with diabetes will need to take a daily pill to replace these hormones.
- Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)
- This is much rarer, affecting about 1 in 100 people with diabetes. It happens when the thyroid makes too many hormones.
We check the thyroid gland during clinic visits and do blood tests every year, especially if the thyroid feels bigger than normal or if you’re not growing well. The main test is called TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). Sometimes, doctors also check a hormone called T4.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is another autoimmune problem where your body can’t handle a protein called gluten, found in wheat, barley, and rye. About 1 in 20 people with diabetes have celiac disease. Symptoms can include stomach pain, gas, diarrhea, or poor growth, but many people have no symptoms at all.
We recommend screening for celiac disease with a blood test called transglutaminase. If the test is positive, it’s important to work with a gastrointestinal (GI) doctor. Family members might need to be tested too. The treatment is to avoid all foods containing wheat, rye, and barley. A dietitian can help with meal planning.
Adrenal Disorders
Autoimmunity can also affect the adrenal glands, causing Addison’s disease. This is very rare, happening in about 1 in 500 people with type 1 diabetes. The adrenal glands make important hormones, and if they don’t work properly, you might need hormone replacement pills. It’s crucial to diagnose and treat this condition because it can be life-threatening, especially during times of stress like surgery or serious infections.
Living with type 1 diabetes means being aware of other autoimmune diseases that can happen. By regularly checking for thyroid problems, screening for celiac disease, and knowing about adrenal disorders, we can manage these conditions effectively.