Tan's persistent symptoms initially led him to believe they were due to stress and metabolic disorders. However, tests at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7 revealed his blood sugar was significantly elevated at 16,78 mmol/L (normal is below 7,0 mmol/L). His triglyceride levels were 20 times higher than normal, and his average three-month blood sugar (HbA1c) was 12,46%, more than double the control threshold, indicating signs of ketoacidosis.

Dr. Pham Thi Thanh Tam, head of the General Internal Medicine Department at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, diagnosed Tan with elevated anti-GAD antibodies at 97,3 U/mL. This indicated his body was mistakenly attacking insulin-producing cells. Tan was diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1) in its early stage. While his pancreas still had some capacity to secrete insulin, there was an emerging risk of acute complications.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system destroys the beta cells of the pancreas, rendering the body unable to produce insulin. Although commonly found in children and adolescents, the disease can also manifest in adults and is often mistaken for type 2 diabetes.

Unlike type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes is not directly linked to being overweight or lifestyle choices. Instead, it can be associated with autoimmune factors, a family history of the condition, or onset after a viral infection.

Tan's habits included regularly consuming soft drinks and many sugary foods. He also had a family history of blood sugar disorders, with his father currently being treated for diabetes and his mother having pre-diabetes. According to Dr. Tam, this combination of lifestyle and genetic factors significantly increased his risk of developing the disease.

Dr. Tam explains the indicators and health status to Tan. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Tam explains the indicators and health status to Tan. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Patients with type 1 diabetes require insulin treatment from the outset, whereas type 2 can often be managed with oral medication and lifestyle changes. A misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment, increasing the risk of complications.

Tan was prescribed insulin therapy, combined with adjustments to his diet and daily activities. After two weeks, his triglyceride levels decreased to 5,47 mmol/L, an approximate 84% reduction. His blood ketones returned to a safe level of 0,15 mmol/L, thereby reducing the risk of acute complications.

Doctors advise individuals experiencing symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, rapid weight loss, or prolonged fatigue to seek early medical examination for an accurate diagnosis.

Patients must adhere to long-term insulin treatment, regularly monitor their blood sugar, maintain a reasonable diet, limit sweets and alcohol, and attend periodic follow-ups to effectively manage the disease.

Nhat Thanh

*Patient's name has been changed