Juvenile diabetes or Type I diabetes is the most common to affect children and teens. Type I diabetes is where the body is unable to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that delivers glucose to the cells. Although the most common type of diabetes, with the incline in childhood obesity, there have been more children and teens diagnosed with Type II diabetes.
Symptoms Of Type I Diabetes
Early diagnosis of Type I diabetes is imperative to prevent further complications that come with untreated symptoms. It is most common in children between the ages of 5-6 and then 11- 13 but can affect children of any age.
Symptoms are typically sudden and consist of:
- Frequent urination, especially at nighttime
- Excessive thirst or hunger
- Weight loss, even with increased hunger
- Wounds that heal slowly
Symptoms Of Type II Diabetes
Type II diabetes used to be associated with adults only but has changed with the increase of obesity in children. The symptoms, unlike Type I are more gradual. Your child could be at risk if they are obese.
Symptoms of Type II are similar to Type I but can also include:
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Severe fatigue
Treatment Of Diabetes In Children
There is currently no cure for diabetes in children, but with the help of your child’s pediatrician, it can be managed. With proper treatment, you can control the blood sugar levels and decrease the chances of long-term complications. Insulin therapy is the most common treatment for managing diabetes. This involves injections or an insulin pump. Monitoring your child’s blood sugar levels daily is also an important part of treatment, as well as a healthy and balanced diet. If you are concerned that your child may have diabetes, talk to their pediatrician. They will likely order a simple blood test, and this can provide a diagnosis. Without proper treatment, more serious health problems can arise.
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About Pediatrics of Florence
We believe that children are more than just “little adults.” They have unique personalities, challenges, and life circumstances and we have made every effort to make our offices and care as “kid friendly” as possible. We have an aquatic theme in the waiting rooms (separated for sick and well children) as well as themed examination rooms. All of our physicians are Board Certified Pediatricians and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics and our nurse practitioners are all licensed Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and are available to see both well and sick children.
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