Diabetes is diagnosed on the basis of a high glucose level in the blood. A blood sample can be measured at a random time or after an 8-hour fast. Additional blood tests can help distinguish between type 1 diabetes and other types of diabetes. The level of ketones, for example, can be measured. Ketones are usually elevated only in type 1 diabetes.
Atherosclerosis can lead to heart attacks and strokes or poor circulation in the legs and feet.
This, along with poor circulation , can result in serious foot and leg infections that may require amputation. Bacterial infections of the feet are also common and can be life-threatening. Diabetes is not contagious and poses no risk to others. Type 1 diabetes does tend to run in families. Treatment for type 1 diabetes is focused on controlling blood glucose levels.