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It can be tough to be a kid. Growing pains can come in all shapes and sizes, from sibling rivalries and playground bullies, to growth spurts and acne. But of all the challenges kids face, none are as unforgiving as a severe medical condition. Juvenile diabetes is a disease that hinders childhood and can also brutally change the shape of adulthood. Even healthy, active kids with juvenile diabetes must face this opponent every day of their lives. Juvenile diabetes can rob kids of their good health as they grow into adults. As a parent, you can take necessary steps today to help raise a healthier kid. It's easy to misunderstand and misinterpret the causes and symptoms of juvenile diabetes. Here are some facts that every parent must know: Juvenile Diabetes Basics First and foremost, it's important to realize that your child's diabetes is not your fault, and you need to make sure that your child does not feel that he or she has brought about the disease. Popular to contrary belief, Type I or "juvenile" diabetes is not caused by childhood obesity or sugar overload. This is a genetic disease. When kids have juvenile diabetes, an autoimmune response to pancreatic antigens is created, causing these proteins to break down. The pancreas delivers the insulin that breaks down glucose and converts the glucose into energy. In the United States alone, approximately 1.4 million people suffer from this form of diabetes. Symptoms and Effects Juvenile diabetes is presented with a long list of possible side effects. Foot ulcers, digestive problems, possible kidney failure, difficulties with eyesight and even blindness can occur. Symptoms of juvenile diabetes include blurred vision, excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, extreme fatigue or lethargy and a numbing or tingling sensation in the feet and hands. If your child complains about one or more of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your physician immediately. Treatment While the cause of juvenile diabetes cannot be prevented, there are treatment methods available to help to control the disease and lessen your child's discomfort. See if there is a diabetes clinic in your area and, if possible, insist on a referral to a doctor specializing in juvenile diabetes. He or she will prescribe insulin and provide a special diet and exercise regime for your child. The doctor will also show you how to regularly monitor your child's glucose levels. And you'll need to be sure that your child is taking his or her medications properly, and eating the right foods. You'll also need to be sure that your child stays healthy and active, because exercise is very important in staving off potential complications of juvenile diabetes. As a parent, you naturally want to prevent your children from harm and suffering. Unfortunately, some things are simply out of our control. As a genetic disease, juvenile diabetes cannot be prevented, but there are certain precautions that you can take. See your doctor if you are concerned that your child may have juvenile diabetes. If anyone in your family has a history of diabetes, make sure that you know how to spot all of the signs and symptoms. Take steps to help keep your child healthy. With smart food choices and plenty of exercise, your child can enjoy the healthy, carefree lifestyle that every kid deserves.
Article Source: http://www.writedot.com
Essayist Venus Enock is a freelancer for numerous popular Internet magazines, on healthy living and healthy kid topics.
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