Diagnosing Type 1 Diabetes In Children: A Guide for Parents

Posted on

Does your child always seem to be unusually hungry and thirty? The symptoms that your child is experiencing might be associated with a health condition that is known as Type 1 diabetes. You don't want your child to unknowingly live with diabetes, as it can lead to him or her having numerous complications. It is important for the condition to get treated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Take a look at this article to learn more about diabetes in case your child has it.

1. Symptoms Your Child Might Have

Excessive hunger and thirst are two of the most common symptoms that develops from Type 1 diabetes. The hunger stems from insulin being unable to move sugar into cells as it should, which cause hunger due to a substantial decrease in energy. There are numerous other symptoms that your child might have as well. For example, a lack of energy can cause your child to feel weak all the time. Vision problems and weight loss are some of the other symptoms of Type 1 diabetes.

2. Getting a Proper Diagnosis

Diagnosing Type 1 diabetes will involve your child undergoing several types of blood sugar tests. Urine will be tested for the presence of ketones. Your child will also be given a blood tests, as it will allow medical professional to look for antibodies that are associated with diabetes. Keep in mind that there is more than one type of diabetes and other metabolic issues can sometimes cause the same symptoms, so the right diagnosis is important for proper treatment to be done.

3. Why Type 1 Diabetes is Harmful

One of the most harmful complications of Type 1 diabetes is kidney failure. The condition can lead to your child having to undergo dialysis. Your child will also be at risk for developing high blood pressure, which can lead to numerous other health problems. For example, high blood pressure can put your child at risk for a stroke or heart attack.

4. Treatment Your Child Might Need

Insulin therapy is the main type of treatment that your child will need if he or she is diagnosed with diabetes. Monitoring your child's blood sugar level is also an important part of treating the condition. A pediatric services physician will come up with the most ideal treatment plan to help your child cope with having Type 1 diabetes, as well as to prevent further complications from developing.


Share