Which specialist treats type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes requires ongoing insulin management because the body does not make enough insulin. An endocrinologist or diabetes specialist helps set an insulin plan, interprets glucose patterns and adjusts care around illness, exercise, work and daily routines. Diabetes nurses, dietitians and educators may provide practical teaching alongside the medical specialist.

Your team can help you understand glucose monitoring, insulin delivery, meal planning and what to do when readings are unexpectedly high or low. Reviews also provide an opportunity to check injection sites, discuss equipment and plan routine screening.

If you have recently been diagnosed, arrange diabetes specialist follow-up without delay and attend education sessions offered by the clinic. Bring your glucose records, insulin doses, food and activity notes, and a list of questions. Keep insulin available as prescribed and do not change a regular plan without clinical advice unless you have been given a specific sick-day plan.

A primary care clinician can assist with referrals, prescriptions and general health needs, while the diabetes team leads more detailed insulin decisions. Ask who to contact outside routine appointments if you are unwell.

Seek urgent medical help for severe low-glucose symptoms, loss of consciousness, seizure, repeated vomiting, deep or difficult breathing, severe abdominal pain, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. These can require rapid assessment and treatment.

Ask who is responsible for insulin adjustments, how to manage illness and exercise, when to check ketones if advised, how to treat low glucose, and how often you need reviews. Clarify how to obtain urgent advice from your diabetes service.