Childhood Diabetes
Diabetes is a defect in the body’s ability to convert glucose from the food we eat into energy. Normally, the carbohydrates in the food you eat are broken down into the simple sugar called glucose, which is the primary source of fuel for your body. After digestion, the glucose passes into your bloodstream. This is necessary so it becomes available for body cells to use for growth and energy. A hormone called insulin, which is created by the pancreas, regulates the use of glucose by the body's cells.
Diabetes in Children
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make insulin. Without insulin, blood sugar is not removed from the blood and can elevate to dangerous levels. This type is often managed through taking insulin. Type 1 used to be the main type of diabetes in children. However, with the rise of obesity, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and teens.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either does not make insulin or does not use it well. Type 2 diabetes can be improved and controlled with proper diet and exercise, and sometimes medications are needed. To lower risk of type 2 diabetes, promote physical activity in your child and help them maintain a healthy weight. Have nutritious foods available, limit processed foods and fast foods, and limit tv and video game time.
Symptoms of Diabetes
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Weight loss
- Extreme hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Irritability and/or unusual behavior
- Frequent yeast infection in girls
The diagnosis of diabetes in your child can be overwhelming, but with consistent care and management, you can help your child control this condition.
Please call us for more information on diabetes and on how it can affect your child at 731-423-1500.