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Childhood diabetes is a relatively common condition affecting young people the world over. While this disease should be treated as serious, there have been great advances in medical treatments to help young diabetics lead more normal, comfortable lives. On average, 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year. About 13,000 of these new cases are children. Broken down, that's 36 children every day that are diagnosed. Type I Childhood Diabetes Most diabetic children have Type I diabetes, commonly known as "juvenile" or "childhood diabetes". This condition is present at birth and prevents the body from producing insulin. Many people born with childhood diabetes are not diagnosed until adolescence. Children and teens with the condition must learn about the proper treatment methods. Signs of Type I Childhood Diabetes Diabetic attacks can come on suddenly, even to those who have not been diagnosed, so it's crucial for parents to recognize the warning signs. If not properly treated, these attacks can have long-lasting consequences, and may cause death in extreme cases. Signs and symptoms of diabetes may include extreme thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite or weight loss, sleepiness, labored breathing, sudden changes in vision or a fruity smell to the breath. Knowing the warning signs can save a life. Childhood diabetes is easily mistaken as other illnesses. Never assume, and seek immediate care if you notice that your child shows one or more of these symptoms. See your doctor and insist that your son or daughter be tested for diabetes. Failure to diagnose childhood diabetes can have awful consequences. However, if the condition doesn't run in your family, you may not automatically identify the need to know all the symptoms. There are three main symptoms of childhood diabetes to keep in mind at all times: thirst, frequent urination, and blood glucose levels. If your child seems unusually thirsty, makes frequent trips to the bathroom or shows both of these signs, his or her blood sugar may be high. Children that appear to be overly sleepy or lethargic, feel "clammy" or just seem "off" can benefit from a trip to the doctor for a simple blood or urine test. Your family doctor or pediatrician may evaluate your child for other conditions as well, but it's important to rule out the possibility of childhood diabetes. If the condition goes undiagnosed and an attack occurs, you will be faced with sorting things out in an emergency situation. Health Risks of Childhood Diabetes When a child is diagnosed with diabetes, a long list of potential health problems is brought to light. If blood sugar levels are low, your child may suffer from difficulties with vision, kidney and liver problems and even a great risk of heart attack and stroke. Persistent high blood sugar levels, on the other hand, may increase the possibility of infection (from tooth abscess to yeast infections), wounds that won't heal, gangrene from infected wounds and a host of other ailments. Some children may suffer from nerve damage to the extremities, particularly the feet. This results in intense pain and irreversible damage. Kids shouldn't have to deal with grown-up health problems. Your doctor can perform an easy test for childhood diabetes which, if diagnosed early, is manageable. If your child has juvenile diabetes, make sure that he or she understands the condition and appreciates the importance of proper treatment. It's the best way to ensure the healthy and carefree life that your child deserves.
Article Source: http://www.writedot.com
Columnist Sterling Ostin writes for several web magazines, on healthy kid and fitness training issues.
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