Type 1 diabetes in children is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone necessary for regulating blood sugar levels. Here's an overview of symptoms, treatment plans, and diagnosis/testing methods:
Increased thirst and frequent urination: High blood sugar levels cause excess glucose to be excreted through urine, leading to dehydration and increased thirst.
Extreme hunger: Due to the body's inability to utilize glucose properly, children may experience constant hunger.
Unintentional weight loss: Despite increased appetite, weight loss may occur due to the body breaking down muscle and fat for energy.
Fatigue: Without sufficient insulin, cells don't receive enough glucose for energy, resulting in fatigue and weakness.
Irritability and mood changes: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect mood and behavior.
Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of the eyes, leading to blurred vision.
Insulin therapy: Children with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections or insulin delivered through an insulin pump to regulate blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to adjust insulin doses and maintain target levels.
Healthy diet: A balanced diet consisting of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Education and support: Children and their families should receive education and support from healthcare providers, diabetes educators, and support groups to manage the condition effectively.
Blood tests: A blood test measuring blood glucose levels is the primary method for diagnosing diabetes. A fasting plasma glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test may be used.
Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test: This blood test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.
Urine tests: These tests may be done to measure glucose and ketone levels in the urine, which can indicate diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes.
Symptom evaluation: Doctors may consider symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss when diagnosing diabetes in children.