Diabetes mellitus is a long-term condition that jeopardizes the ability of the body to convert food, in particular sugar (carbohydrates) into energy. In juvenile diabetes, the pancreas fails to produce the required amount of insulin, a hormone that is necessary for the conversion of sugar into energy. With insufficient insulin, there is excess sugar in the blood.
High blood glucose if not controlled may damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and the nervous system over a period of time.
The most common forms of diabetes are type 1 and 2.
Type 1 Diabetes
In this type, the child’s body does not manufacture insulin. While it can begin at any age, the ages of 5-6 and 11-13 report peak incidence.
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination (possibly bed wetting)
- Extreme hunger
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Smelling breath
- Irritability or behavioural changes
Treatment
Children with type 1 diabetes must have daily injections of insulin to keep their blood glucose level within the normal range. Insulin is given either by injection or through an insulin pump.
Further, eating the right foods to manage blood glucose levels, exercising and monitoring blood glucose through periodical blood and urine tests are the recommended courses of action.
Type 1 diabetes diagnosis can be stressful for the children and their families. But with good support, children with type 1 diabetes can lead an active and healthy life.
Type 2 Diabetes
This is called adult-onset diabetes. Type 2 diabetes in children gradually develops with or without symptoms. Here, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin due to an autoimmune reaction or the kid’s body may be insulin resistant. The family history and genetics are also influencing factors.
In this, the risk factors encountered are:
- Obesity
- Inactivity
- Tendency to eat red meat and drink sweetened beverages
Type 2 is associated with the following symptoms:
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Weight loss
- Darkened skin
- Frequent urination
- Frequently affected with infections
Recommended courses of action:
It takes time for the child and the family to adjust to living with diabetes.
However, with a carefully controlled diet, lifestyle adjustments and medication to control the blood sugar, the condition can be reversed.
As is rightly said, prevention is better than cure – one should endeavour to avoid diabetes.
Dr Pushkala. M.S.
Senior Consultant Pediatrician
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
