Type 1 diabetes in primary care
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body stops producing insulin. It often develops in childhood or young adulthood, but it can occur at any age. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin treatment.
Although specialist diabetes teams lead long-term management, general practice plays an important role in early recognition, shared care, routine monitoring and support for people living with type 1 diabetes.
This page explains how type 1 diabetes presents, how GPs are involved in ongoing care, and when urgent assessment is required.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, blood glucose levels rise quickly and can become dangerous.
Key features:
- Autoimmune condition
- Not caused by lifestyle factors
- Requires insulin from diagnosis
- Can develop at any age
This is different from type 2 diabetes, which is primarily related to insulin resistance.
How type 1 diabetes commonly presents
Symptoms often develop over days or weeks and may include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
In some cases, people present acutely unwell with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a medical emergency.
Type 1 diabetes and diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made urgently using blood glucose testing and supported by further specialist assessment.
GPs play a key role in:
- Recognising symptoms early
- Arranging urgent referral when type 1 diabetes is suspected
- Supporting patients before and after diagnosis
Type 1 diabetes should always be considered in people with rapid onset symptoms, particularly if weight loss is present.
The role of primary care in type 1 diabetes
Diagnosis is usually made urgently using blood glucose testing and supported by further specialist assessment.
GPs play a key role in:
- Recognising symptoms early
- Arranging urgent referral when type 1 diabetes is suspected
- Supporting patients before and after diagnosis
Type 1 diabetes should always be considered in people with rapid onset symptoms, particularly if weight loss is present.
The role of primary care in type 1 diabetes
While specialist teams oversee insulin management, GPs support people with type 1 diabetes through:
- Ongoing medical care for other conditions
- Medication reviews
- Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol
- Managing intercurrent illness
- Mental health support
- Coordination of care between services
Primary care provides continuity alongside specialist input.
Monitoring and routine checks
People with type 1 diabetes are usually offered regular reviews that may include:
- HbA1c monitoring
- Blood pressure checks
- Cholesterol testing
- Kidney function tests
- Foot and eye screening
These checks help reduce long-term complications.
Type 1 diabetes and illness
Intercurrent illness can significantly affect blood glucose control.
During illness:
- Blood glucose may rise unpredictably
- Insulin requirements may change
- Risk of dehydration increases
GPs can provide advice on sick-day rules and when urgent review is needed.
Mental wellbeing and type 1 diabetes
Living with type 1 diabetes requires constant attention and can affect mental health.
People may experience:
- Diabetes distress
- Anxiety around glucose control
- Burnout from long-term self-management
Primary care plays an important role in recognising and supporting mental wellbeing alongside physical health.
When to seek urgent medical help
Seek urgent help if someone with type 1 diabetes experiences:
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Very high blood glucose with ketones
- Signs of dehydration
These may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis and require emergency assessment.
When to speak to a GP
You should seek GP review if:
- You are struggling with diabetes management alongside other health issues
- Illness is affecting glucose control
- You have concerns about medications or monitoring
- You feel overwhelmed or burnt out risks
Support is appropriate at any stage.
GP insight
In primary care, type 1 diabetes is managed through partnership with specialist teams. GPs focus on whole-person care, early recognition of problems, and supporting people to live well with a demanding long-term condition.
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Diabetes and Endocrine Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you have type 1 diabetes and would like support with general health concerns, illness management or coordination of care, an online GP appointment can help.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 25 January 2026