If you are a parent, it is only natural for you to want to ensure the overall well-being of your child. Doing so entails becoming aware of symptoms of common illnesses so that you can spot them quickly.
One common condition that many people suffer from is diabetes, which can be fatal if left untreated. How, then, can you keep an eye out for signs of diabetes and avoid a potentially fatal outcome in your little one?
Type 1 Diabetes and the Major Symptoms
There are a lot of different signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes. This is because the disease comes in several different forms, based on the severity of the condition. Oftentimes, the symptoms of type 1 diabetes will begin to show up before you even start to experience high blood sugar.
When blood sugar levels are elevated, the body will respond to this by releasing hormones called insulin to get your blood sugar levels back to normal. The cells in your body will absorb the sugar using insulin, and your blood sugar levels will drop back to normal.
In those diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce its own insulin. As such, your cells will not be able to absorb sugar at all, and your blood sugar levels will remain high.
A few different symptoms to watch out for could indicate the onset of type 1 diabetes. They include:
- Frequent urination – This is due to the body’s attempt to get rid of excess blood sugar.
- Increased thirst – This is due to the same reason as increased urination.
- Lethargy and fatigue (especially in the afternoon) – This is because the body has to work harder to get rid of excess blood sugar.
- Fruity odor to the breath – This is due to acidic byproducts released when the excess sugar is broken down in the body.
- Constant hunger and sudden weight loss – This is because the body is trying to digest the sugar as quickly as possible.
- Unusual weight gain without an increase in eating – This is due to the fact that the body is trying to get rid of the sugar the best way that it can, by converting it into fat.
- Blurry vision – This is a change in your eyes’ ability to focus due to high blood sugar in your body.
- Slow-healing cuts, bent skin, and bruises – This is due to low oxygen levels in the body.
The above symptoms are the most common, but others can be mistaken for something else, such as depression. In addition, other symptoms of type 1 diabetes will be unique to your child, such as:
- Insomnia
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting or stomach issues
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is vital to take them to the doctor as soon as possible. If it turns out that your child has diabetes, the sooner you begin treatment, the easier it will be to keep their blood sugar levels at a normal level.
Conclusion
It is crucial that you do not delay treatment of diabetes if you suspect that your child may have it. Incorrect treatment may have fatal consequences, so you must take the issue to a professional. The earlier your child begins treatment, the better their chances of survival and recovery.
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