Diabetes in children is a chronic disease that affects children in their early years, and the rate of childhood diabetes is increasing worldwide.
This is due to several reasons, including genetic and pathological factors. To learn about the types of diabetes and methods of prevention and treatment, please continue reading the following article.
What is diabetes in children
Diabetes in children is the body's inability to produce sufficient amounts of insulin, which leads to high blood sugar levels. There are two types of diabetes, depending on the cause of the disease.
What are the types of diabetes in children
A child can be affected by two types of diabetes. Type 1 is the most common among children, and in this type, the pancreas completely stops producing insulin.
Type 2 diabetes affects older children who are overweight or obese. In this type, the body produces insulin, but it is ineffective, and the body does not respond to it.
Causes of diabetes in children
The causes vary depending on the type of diabetes the child has
Type 1 diabetes:
- A family history of diabetes.
- The immune system attacking the cells of the pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes:
- The child being overweight or obese.
- The mother having diabetes during pregnancy.
- Some family members having diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes in children
The symptoms of diabetes vary depending on the type the child has, and include:
- Weight loss.
- Blurred vision.
- Dry mouth and skin.
- Excessive hunger.
- Increased thirst and frequent urination.
- Lethargy and fatigue.
- Increased infections and slow wound healing.
How is a child diagnosed with diabetes
A child is diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes by a doctor observing the symptoms and conducting several medical tests. Such as random blood sugar tests, fasting blood sugar tests, and glycosylated hemoglobin tests, through which the doctor determines the type of diabetes and the most appropriate treatment methods.
Preventing Diabetes in Children
Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but type 2 diabetes can be prevented in children by following these guidelines:
- Maintaining a healthy weight for the child.
- Encouraging the child to exercise.
- Reducing the consumption of sugary foods.
- Following a diet that includes vegetables and fruits.
- If there is a family history of the disease, it is preferable to have regular checkups.
Methods of Treating Diabetes in Children
The methods of treating diabetes in children vary depending on the type of diabetes the child has.
Type 1 Diabetes
- Insulin injections.
- Insulin pump.
- Daily blood sugar monitoring.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Medication.
- Losing excess weight.
- Continuing to exercise.
- Following a healthy diet low in sugars.
Medications for Treating Diabetes in Children
There are several medications that can be used to treat diabetes, but they vary depending on the type of diabetes the child has and their response to treatment.
Type 1 Diabetes
- Novorapid insulin pen.
- Lantus insulin injections.
- Insulatard insulin injections.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Glucophage tablets.
- Glucovance tablets.
- Metformin syrup or tablets.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diabetes in Children
How do I know if my child has type 1 or type 2 diabetes
By the appearance of symptoms. If they appear suddenly with low insulin levels, this is type 1 diabetes. However, if the symptoms appear gradually and are associated with weight gain, it is type 2 diabetes.
What is the difference between diabetes and diabetes insipidus in children
True diabetes is caused by an organic disorder that leads to a decrease in the hormone insulin and an increase in blood sugar, while diabetes insipidus is caused by a deficiency in the antidiuretic hormone.
Can diabetes in children be cured
Type 1 diabetes cannot be completely cured, but type 2 diabetes can be controlled through treatment and regular monitoring of the child.
Article Summary
Diabetes in children is a modern disease that is prevalent among many children and is divided into two types depending on the main cause of the disease.
It is a chronic disorder in the production of the hormone insulin, which causes a high blood sugar level. It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with appropriate treatment and by following a healthy lifestyle for the child.