Diabetes impacts the body's utilisation of glucose, a type of sugar, which is a vital energy source for our bodies. When a child has diabetes, their body either does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that helps glucose get into cells) or does not use insulin properly. As a result, glucose levels rise in the bloodstream, triggering the appearance of different symptoms. This article will explore the prevalent symptoms of childhood diabetes.
Symptoms of Childhood Diabetes
Here are some common signs of childhood diabetes:
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Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination:
Children with diabetes often experience increased urination due to excess sugar in their urine. This process causes the body to lose fluids from its tissues, leading to dehydration and a persistent feeling of thirst. Consequently, children may drink more fluids to alleviate their thirst, resulting in further increased urination. This can be a contributing factor to bed wetting among young children.
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Unexplained Weight Loss:
Despite eating well, a child with diabetes might lose weight. This happens because the body can't use glucose properly, so it burns fat and muscle for energy instead, leading to weight loss.
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Extreme Hunger:
Even though they are losing weight, children with diabetes always feel hungry. Since their cells cannot access glucose, their bodies think they need more food for energy.
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Fatigue and Irritability:
The lack of energy from not using glucose efficiently makes children feel tired and cranky. They might become more irritable than usual.
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Blurry Vision:
Diabetes can affect the fluid levels of a diabetic child’s eye. This leads to temporary blurry vision in some children.
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Slow Healing of Cuts and Wounds:
Children with uncontrolled diabetes may experience circulation issues that slow down blood movement. This can hinder the body's ability to deliver essential nutrients to wounds, leading to slow or non-healing injuries.
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Yeast Infections:
Girls with diabetes might experience more yeast infections than usual. This may cause itching and discomfort.
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Sweet, Fruity Breath:
If a diabetic child experiences high blood glucose levels, their breath might smell sweet or fruity due to the body trying to get rid of excess glucose.
Conclusion
Remember, if your little one shows any of these signs of childhood diabetes, don't panic. Consult with their doctor, who will develop a health plan to ensure their glucose levels remain healthy. To ensure optimal health, it is crucial that your child maintains a balanced diet, engages in regular physical activity, and that you consider how health insurance can support their medical needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.