Diabetes In Children :- Clues To Recognize The Disease

Type 2 diabetes is the form that is usually associated with an unhealthy lifestyle and obesity.

More and more children are affected by it. However, type 1 diabetes, which is caused by genetic predisposition, remains by far the most common form in children.

But how do you know if your child might be affected? Professor Andreas Neu, pediatric diabetologist and vice-president of the German Diabetes Society, lists some warning signs.

WARNING SIGNS

Very thirsty

If children drink a lot during the day and sometimes even at night, this can be an early sign of diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels cause thirst.

Strong urge to urinate

Children who drink a lot often have to go to the toilet. This can happen not only during the day but also at night. “It can even happen that children suddenly start wetting the bed again at night, even if they haven’t done so for a long time,” says Neu.

Fewer kilos

When children lose weight, it is always a warning sign, says the specialist. Normally, children do not lose weight but rather gain it. So, in combination with the other signs, it is a clear signal that something is not right.

Great tiredness

If children are noticeably tired, listless, or suddenly performing less well at school, it could be a sign of diabetes. Families should act quickly if a combination of these signs is present.

IMPORTANCE OF DIAGNOSIS

Acting quickly is not that difficult, says Neu. First, the diagnosis must be made. A pediatrician or family doctor can easily determine whether diabetes is present by taking a urine sample or a small drop of blood. It only takes five minutes and families are thus assured. Together with specialists, parents are informed and prepared and children are given support.

When a child is diagnosed with diabetes, many parents wonder if they have done something wrong. But type 1 diabetes, which is more common among children, is not related to dietary errors, the specialist clarifies. “No one is to blame for their diabetes.”

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, she says, not even with a healthier diet or exercise. After diagnosis, however, attention must be paid to a balanced diet and exercise must be part of daily life.