Signs of Diabetes in Children

It is a common misconception that only older people can suffer from diabetes. On the contrary a large number of children and young adults are found to suffer from diabetes. The type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in children; however, the type 2 diabetes is also found in case of children. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the insulin producing cells are destructed by the immune system. Whereas in case of type 2 diabetes, the insulin produced by the pancreas is not accepted by the body. Both the cases result in increased amount of blood sugar in the body which can lead to severe complications. Therefore, in order to prevent these complications, it is essential to bring juvenile diabetes under control. So, what are signs and symptoms of diabetes that we should be aware of? Let us take a look at it in detail.

Early Symptoms of Diabetes in Children

The exact cause of diabetes in children is not known. However, factors like genetics, family history, bad diet, etc. are considered as some of the diabetes causing factors. In most of the cases, juvenile diabetes is a congenital (acquired at birth). Diabetes symptoms in children are similar or more or less similar to the symptoms observed in case of adults. The following are the first signs of diabetes observed when suffering from type 1 diabetes.

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Excessive hunger
• Weight loss
• High blood sugar level
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Extreme fatigue
• Irritability
• Numbness in hands and feet

These are some of the earliest and common symptoms of diabetes onset observed in case of children. It should also be noted that vaginal infection (in girls) is also one of the signs of diabetes. On the other hand, one of the most prominent symptoms of type 2 diabetes is obesity or being overweight. The urine of children suffering from diabetes shows traces of sugar which is also considered as one of the first symptoms of diabetes.

Treatment Diabetes in Children

In case, you observe any of these diabetes symptoms in your children, you should consult the doctor immediately and undertake tests for proper diagnosis of diabetes. The tests are easily available and are painless. Once the child has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, there are several measures one needs to follow in order to keep the condition under control. Firstly, the child becomes insulin dependent and hence, insulin needs to be administered everyday for diabetes treatment. This can be done with the help of insulin injections that should be taken on the doctor's consultation. Secondly, you need to constantly monitor the blood sugar level and also encourage the child to follow a diet to bring the sugar level under control. The child needs to follow the diabetic diet which is inclusive of fruits and vegetables and limit the intake of sugar and sweets. On the other hand, the child should also be encouraged to have physical activity as it can help in keeping the blood sugar level under control. Similarly, it is essential to follow all the above mentioned methods in case of type 2 diabetes in children. Sometimes, the doctor may also prescribe oral medications to take regularly for type 2 diabetes.

Lastly, one should note that identifying these signs at an early stage helps in bringing the disease under control which will help your child have a secure life. Take care!