Type one diabetes is also known as juvenile diabetes but it is definitely not a condition to kid around with.
Although usually first found in children, type one (or insulin-dependent) diabetes is something that requires a lifetime of control. Children diagnosed with the disorder must learn early in life to submit to insulin injections and to avoid sweets. These of course are difficult lessons to learn, even for adults.
However, the precautions are essential because of the nature of the disorder. Type one diabetes occurs because the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas are somehow defective and do not produce enough insulin. Your body’s cells need insulin to absorb glucose, which is energy from the foods you eat. If your body can’t absorb this glucose, your body will use the energy from your fat stores instead. If too much of this energy is used, you will go into a diabetic coma.
Symptoms for type one diabetes are frequent urination, excessive thirst, white spots of urine on your underwear, fatigue, frequent urinary tract infections, boils, blurred vision and weight loss.
If you or your child experience these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. You or your child will probably take a urine test, a blood glucose test and perhaps a glucose tolerance test in which you will be given a very sugary drink, then have your blood glucose checked several times. If the results of these tests are beyond acceptable limits, you and your child will be taught as to how to care for yourselves.
At first, parents and other family members will be shown how to administer insulin in very young children. As they get older, the child will be taught how to administer it. They will also be taught to pay special attention to their eyes and their feet, which are prone to problems related to diabetes.
Undoubtedly adjusting to a new lifestyle is very difficult, especially for young children and teens. They may rebel by trying to sneak forbidden treats or by resisting taking their insulin. Parents must be sympathetic but firm and make sure the treatment plan is followed.
Fortunately, new research and new products are available every day to help type one diabetics cope. Sugar-free foods, insulin pumps and other tools are now available to help those with the disorder live more normal lives. There are many support groups, classes and other resources available to help families adjust.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with type one diabetes, take heart in knowing help is available and that you can live a long, healthy life as long as you monitor your diabetes diligently.
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