Sunday, October 27, 2013

Children and Type One Diabetes

Although type one diabetes is found in adults, it is most common in children and at one time was known as juvenile diabetes. In this type of diabetes, the pancreas does not make insulin which the body needs in order to function properly. This means that your child will need to take insulin for the rest of their lives, unlike other forms of diabetes. They will be dependent upon insulin shots forever in order to live a healthy life. Of course, when a child is diagnosed it can be devastating for the parents however, in time, you and your child will adapt to the changes that need to be made.
There are signs and symptoms that show up quickly in children that can provide clues to the fact that your child may have type one diabetes. These include going to the bathroom more often and drinking more, eating more than usual because they always feel hungry or if they are eating more than normal and losing weight. It could seem as though they are constantly tired, or getting grouchy more often than usual. They may complain that their vision is blurry or the girls may start to experience yeast infections and get them often. If you notice any of these signs you should take them to the doctor right away for a checkup and to have them tested for diabetes.
There is no set cause or reason as to why children develop type one diabetes. There is always the possibility that it is genetic and comes from a long family history. But, there is also the possibility that being exposed to a particular type of virus or something in the environment may also be a trigger in the disease as well. However, there is no way to determine what the specific cause is at the time of diagnosis.
Regardless of the cause, in type one diabetes the body attacks itself and kills the islet cells meaning that it can no longer produce insulin. Without insulin the body cannot function properly and glucose is not able to get into the cells without its help. This is why someone with type one will need to take insulin forever. Once the islet cells are destroyed they do not come back. Without the insulin, sugar will begin to build up in the bloodstream because it has nowhere to go and this can bring about many more medical conditions, all of which you and your child will want to avoid.
When diabetes is not treated there are many medical complications that can occur. These can include heart disease, kidney and nerve damage, skin problems, feet problems and concerns with the eyes. Of course the longer type one diabetes goes undiagnosed and untreated the worse the complications can become which can include damage to the brain and osteoporosis. The older we get the higher the risk of other complications but by managing the disease and taking the insulin that is prescribed, the risk can be lowered for further medical conditions. It is important to work with your doctor every step of the way for your child to stay healthy.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7970014

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