Diabetes in Children

Types of Diabetes

The two most common types are called type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Both of these can occur at any age, but children are more likely to be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

• Type 1 Diabetes

Once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas makes little or no insulin. This stops the body from being able to use the sugar which leads to its build-up in the bloodstream. As the body is unable to utilise the sugar (glucose), it passes out of the body in the urine and take water with it. Taking insulin intravenously helps manage blood sugar levels in such cases.

While type 1 diabetes can begin at any age, there are peak periods at about ages 5 to 6 and then again at ages 11 to 13. The initial symptoms of diabetes in children include fatigue, feeling extremely thirsty, increased appetite, and losing weight. A key sign is frequent urination, particularly at night. You may also notice that your kid has started bedwetting again even though he/she is potty trained.

Children with type 1 diabetes can manage their severity level with a proper diet and exercise. It is important to identify the symptoms of type 1 diabetes to start treatment at an early stage. If left untreated, dehydration and hyperglycaemia (i.e., high blood sugar levels) can cause children to seek emergency medical care. Treatment may be in the form of fluids and administering insulin.

• Type 2 Diabetes

In this condition, the body doesn’t use insulin properly resulting in unusual blood sugar levels. It was once known as adult-onset diabetes as people who are middle-aged or older were most likely to develop it. But today, type 2 diabetes also affects kids and teens, mainly because of childhood obesity. Apart from weight, other risk factors identified in children with type 2 diabetes include hereditary issues, gestational diabetes (i.e., being born to a mother who was diagnosed suffering from diabetes in her pregnancy), or other underlying clinical conditions influencing the way the body reacts to insulin. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes mellitus are similar to T1DM but manifest gradually. One may notice darkened patches of skin, particularly in the armpits or around the neck.

Managing Diabetes in Children

Although diabetes in children cannot be cured, it can be controlled. Parents have an essential role to play in this as it’s important that they monitor the child’s blood sugar level, give insulin, and ensure they consume a balanced diet.

Controlling the child’s blood sugar level and keeping it within a healthy range can reduce the chances of developing other associated illnesses. Parents must ensure that their child maintains a healthy weight as being overweight or obese can make it more difficult to control and manage diabetes.

How Can I Help Manage My Child’s Blood Sugar Levels?

If your child is too small, you must check the blood sugar level several times per day using a glucometer and chemically treated test strips. Your children will grow healthy if their blood sugar is kept under control. It will also protect them against several other associated health issues. Here are some tips you can follow:

1. Encourage regular physical activity

Exercise strengthens your child’s muscles and bones, helps them feel good, and controls blood sugar levels. In fact, being active makes insulin work better. Kids with type 1 diabetes can and should exercise. A child should be active for at least 60 minutes daily.

2. Eat Healthy

Select high-fibre foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid consumption of processed foods, chips, oily snacks, and fast food. Overall focus on giving a lots of healthy choices.

3. Reduce sugar intake

Consumption of food should be based on certain diet rules. Keep your child away from beverages and candies that contain a high amount of added sugar. Limiting desserts and other sugary foods is also crucial.

4. Limit screen time

Screen usage on computers, tablets, cell phones, televisions, and video games is usually associated with a lack of activity. Reducing screen time can encourage physical activity like walking, biking, dancing, or cleaning the house.

5. Test your child’s blood and give medicines

Check blood sugar levels often and make sure your child takes insulin or other diabetes medicines as prescribed.

6. Learn as much as you can about diabetes and your child’s care plan

This will help you ask questions to your care team and give you a better understanding about your child’s condition.

7. Get regular health check-ups

This will help monitor the child’s blood sugar levels and allow the care team to adjust your child’s insulin plan over time.

Conclusion

Creating healthy habits and routines with your child will help keep their diabetes in check. While diabetes in children cannot be cured, but by following certain precautionary measures it can be controlled to a great extent.

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Source: googleadservices.com, medlineplus.gov, cdc.gov, hopkinsmedicine.org

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on January 29, 2024