The most common type of diabetes diagnosed in children is type1 diabetes which is also referred to as juvenile diabetes; although children are vulnerable to Type 2 diabetes as well. Diabetes signs and symptoms in children are very difficult to notice since the symptoms develop gradually. It is therefore advisable for parents to take their kids for regular check-ups for early detection and diagnosis of the ailment before it advances to server stages.
Diabetes signs and symptoms in children are most of the similar for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is describes as increased levels of blood sugar level, a condition that is attributed by different reasons for type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce enough insulin vital for converting glucose into glycogen a condition that is managed by regular injection of insulin into the blood stream. Conversely, Type 2 diabetes is commonly associated with poor nutritional and physical health which results to inefficient utilization of insulin produced.
Various Diabetes signs and symptoms in children
As mentioned above, Diabetes signs and symptoms in children are as a result of a malfunction in the supply of glucose in the body tissues. Increasing levels of blood sugar can cause Diabetes signs and symptoms in children like dehydration thus frequently feeling thirsty, frequent urination due to excessive intake of water, and lethargy.
Increased level of appetite and drastic changes in weight loss is another common sign prevalent in children suffering from diabetes. The failure to convert glucose into glycogen for easier absorption into the blood tissues deprives the cells the sugar they require to produce energy. The body therefore increases the level of appetite to increase the amount of energy supply. The considerably high rate of weight loss is as a result of the deficiency of glucose in the body tissues.
The other type of Diabetes signs and symptoms in children to watch out for is blurred eyesight. Blurred vision is caused by the high levels of blood glucose in the eyes and if not attended to early enough it may lead to blindness.
A child may also experience a insensitivity and a tingling sensation in their feet and hands. It is therefore crucial for the parent to check the child’s sensitivity and reaction of itchiness as one of the major Diabetes signs and symptoms in children.
Children suffering from diabetes are usually vulnerable to infections and take long periods for wounds and cuts to heal. Female children suffering from the ailment are generally very susceptible to yeast infections since virginal discharge contains considerably high levels of sugar favorable for the yeast cells to thrive in. It is therefore advisable for parents to take their kids to see a physician if they notice recurring yeast infections among the girls or intense and persistent diaper rash for toddlers.
Fatigue, mood shifts and depression are some of the other signs and symptoms associated with diabetes. If your child exhibits a combination of all or a good number of these signs calls for immediate visit to a physician for further diagnosis.