Diabetes Can Beat Your Child’s Growth!
Diabetes in Children
Diabetes is a severe and long-term health condition that interrupts the process of converting food into energy. Diabetes takes place when the blood glucose level is excessive in your body. Kids can get affected by diabetes due to unhealthy cravings as most children prefer to have sugary food. Consuming large amounts of sugar can cause obesity and a risk of high blood pressure. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most common forms of diabetes. Both can influence anyone at any age. However, type 1 diabetes is quite common in children.
Type 1 diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes is a disorder in which the child’s body no longer supports producing the critical hormone Insulin. Primarily, it affects the immune system which harms the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Insulin is an important hormone that makes it easier to transform sugar or glucose in the blood for use as fuel. Glucose develops in the blood and when it cannot enter the cells, as a result, it drives high blood sugar. The consequences of high blood sugar can arise anywhere in the body; it is especially harmful to the heart, eyes, and kidneys. This condition can be managed by replacing insulin through injections or insulin pumps.
Type 2 diabetes occurs very rarely in children.
However, the significant factor contributing to
type 2 diabetes in children is being overweight.
The child has more possibility of developing
this form of diabetes if there’s a family history
of this condition. This condition can worsen
and lead to long-term health problems without
proper medication.
Signs and Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
The signs of type 1 diabetes frequently indicate earlier than type 2 diabetes. The symptoms can be slightly different in carriers.
- Excessive thirst
- Severe hunger or starvation
- Constant urination and dehydration
- Sudden loss of weight
- Interruptions in vision
- Extreme tiredness or exhaustion
- Regular abdominal pain
- Mood changes and behavioral changes
The signs of type 1 diabetes are similar to other common health conditions. Hence, make sure that you are concerned about the rapid changes in your child.
Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Children with type 2 diabetes may experience a slow onset of growth. This condition may occasionally be identified during a normal checkup. Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes are as follows.
- Bladder infections
- Frequent urination
- Skin infections and difficult-to-heal wounds
- Blurred eyesight
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Tingling sensation
- Loss of weight despite increased hunger
- Nausea and vomiting
- High levels of glucose when testing the blood and urine
How is Diabetes Treated In A Child
Treatments for type 1 diabetes:
- For children with type 1 diabetes, regular insulin doses are required to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Injections or insulin pumps are used to provide insulin.
- Daily workouts or physical activities to reduce blood sugar
- A healthy diet to maintain blood sugar levels. Consistent usage of carbs is vital for a child’s growth.
- The child is required to have routine blood sugar testing. The blood sugar levels need to be frequently tested.
Treatments for type 2 diabetes:
- Avoiding sugary beverages and food
- Consuming high-fiber and low-fat food
- Engage in daily physical activities (riding, walking)
- Having routine consultations to educate your child to control the condition
It’s crucial to seek advice from your doctor regarding the management and treatment of diabetes. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health needs and medical history. Additionally, your doctor can help you monitor your blood sugar levels, prescribe medications, and suggest lifestyle changes that can help you better manage your diabetes. Remember, managing diabetes requires a team effort between you and your healthcare provider, so don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance and support along the way.
If your child has diabetes and you need support, feel free to reach out to us.