Why does Diabetes occur in children?
The body requires glucose as an energy substrate. Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, allows the body to absorb glucose from blood. In some children, the cells that produce insulin in the pancreas are destroyed, resulting in excess blood glucose that cannot be used by the body. This disorder is termed Type 1 Diabetes and requires lifelong insulin dependence.
When should I suspect Diabetes in my child?
Type 1 Diabetes can present from age 4 until late adolescence. The risk of developing the disease is higher in those children with close relatives already suffering from type 1 Diabetes. If your child has the following symptoms, then one can consider screening for the disease:
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Excessive thirst, hunger and urination
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Sudden weight loss
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Blurry vision
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Skin and genitalia infections
Confirming Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is confirmed by doing a fasting blood sugar test. Your doctor might also order another blood test- HbA1C to be absolutely sure of the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, the family needs to begin understanding the disease process and its management. Excellent sugar control is necessary for normal growth and development of the child.
What next?
Identify a hospital which offers comprehensive diabetic care. This team includes a pediatrician, nutritionist, diabetic nurse or counselor and a physiotherapist. The Seventh-day Adventist hospital can offer these services.
Master blood glucose testing.
Buy an easy-to-use glucometer. Maintain a record of blood glucose readings to help adjust insulin dosages. When the child falls sick, resulting in skipped meals and decreased activity, these doses need to be adjusted with the help of the doctor.
Understand how different types of insulin work. Families must learn how to measure and inject insulin, and how to rotate injection sites. Children can be taught self administration of insulin under parental supervision when older.
Recognize the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and learn how to treat it.
Children might have variable food intake and picky food habits. This can cause derangements in blood sugar values. Meal planning with the guidance of a dietician, to ensure a balanced diet is essential. Body weight should be periodically checked.
Conclusion:
Life-long Diabetes can be a challenging proposition for families. Home remedies and alternative therapies with no evidence can put the child at risk of life threatening complications. Parents need to set clear and consistent expectations for their children, while being responsive to their needs.
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