Type 1 Diabetes in Children

The digestive system in the body breaks down the food in the stomach into nutrients and glucose which are absorbed in the blood. The insulin produced by the pancreas breaks down the carbohydrates into glucose molecules which is then absorbed in the cells through the bloodstream to release energy. Sometimes due to the malfunctioning of the pancreas, not enough insulin is produced to break down the glucose molecules. This condition can result in diabetes, which is also known as diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to metabolize the glucose completely, which can result in the increase of blood sugar levels. There are two types of diabetes - type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body's tendency to produce insulin is completely destroyed, whereas in type 2 diabetes the pancreas fail to produce the required amount of insulin and the body tends to become resistant to insulin in spite of the body producing this digestive enzyme.

What Causes Type 1 Diabetes in Children?

Though the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not yet known, some doctors believe that it is caused due to a faulty gene. Though this condition can affect individuals of any age group, it is usually observed during childhood, hence is also known as juvenile diabetes or childhood diabetes. Sometimes it is also known as insulin independent diabetes, since the sufferer requires insulin shots to bring the glucose levels to normal. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system tends to destroy the insulin producing cells, called islets of Langerhans, in the pancreas. With the destruction of these essential cells, the body is unable to produce insulin, due to which metabolism of glucose fails. Instead of being processed in the cells, the glucose levels begin to build up in the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening in case of uncontrolled diabetes. A family history of diabetes is also another causative factor for this health condition.

Type 1 diabetes can lead to several complications like multiple organ failure, disease of the heart and blood vessels, damage to the nerves (or neuropathy) and kidney diseases. These conditions can be aggravated as the child grows older. The child may also suffer from eye problems since the nerves and blood vessels in the eyes, especially the retina, can become damaged due to excess levels of glucose. This condition is known as diabetic retinopathy and can lead to partial or total blindness, cataracts and even glaucoma. It is very essential to diagnose this disorder in time to prevent these complications.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Though type 1 diabetes is most common in children and young adults, it can occur at any age. Some of the diabetes symptoms in children are given below. These symptoms usually take a few days to develop:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Intense hunger which is not satisfied even after a heavy meal
• Fatigue and becoming lethargic
• Genital yeast infections seen mostly in girls
• Blurred vision and other eyesight related problems
• Slow or prolonged healing of wounds
• Other symptoms are abdominal pain and dehydration in very young children

Treating Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Though there is no certain cure for type 1 diabetes, the severity of this condition can be brought under control by regular monitoring of the blood sugar level and keeping a check on the foods consumed. Before going in for treatment the doctor may ask the patient to undergo random blood test to determine the levels of sugar in the blood. Once the level is diagnosed, the doctor may prescribe certain drugs and medications as a means for diabetes treatment. Insulin injections and other medications to produce insulin in the body are prescribed. A flexibility in the diet is also essential to control this pancreas problem. Children with this problem are taught to monitor their blood sugar level and inject insulin. They are also encouraged to actively participate in diabetes management so that they can also lead a normal life.

Type 1 diabetes in children needs regular monitoring, proper care and treatment in order to provide children with this medical condition a healthy life.