How does Diabetes affect Children and Teenagers?

Risk of Diabetes is increasing day by day in children and teenagers. According to the international diabetes federation, approximately more than 1.1 million children and adolescents are living with type 1 diabetes worldwide. Children and teenagers who develop diabetes have a higher risk of health issues throughout their life. However, early detection and lifestyle changes can help us revamp the situation and improve the health of young people.

We will further discuss an overview of diabetes in children and teenagers, including causes, symptoms and prevention tips. In this article, you will find your answer to:
● What is Diabetes?
● What type of diabetes affects children and teenagers?
● What are the symptoms?
● Causes of diagnosing diabetes in children and teenagers
● How to help children and teenagers in establishing a routine to manage their diabetes?
● Prevention Tips

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition in which the body loses its ability to produce insulin or use insulin less efficiently. It can occur anytime in people regardless of their age groups, but different age-groups experience different forms of diabetes.

What type of diabetes affects children and teenagers?

Diabetes is usually of four types, but type 1 diabetes can be seen more frequently in children and teenagers. Still, both type 1 and type 2 can affect children and teenagers. Type 1 and type 2 are different conditions, but they both involve the insulin usage of the body.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Without insulin, glucose cannot move from the blood into the cells, resulting in high blood sugar levels. According to the source, people can develop type 1 diabetes at any age from childhood to adulthood, but the average age is 13 years.

Although type 2 is less common in young people, it can occur by the improper functioning of insulin. Diabetes type 2 is more common in older people, but children and teenagers can also develop it. The main reason for developing type 2 diabetes in children and teenagers is obesity.

Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes are similar in children, teenagers and older people. Some symptoms are common, but some symptoms are different to distinguish between them.

For type 1 Diabetes

The symptoms of type 1 developed rapidly in children over a few weeks.
● Weight loss
● Increased thirst and urination
● Hunger
● Tiredness or fatigue
● Irritability
● Blurred vision
● A fruity smell on breath

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes symptoms may take time to become visible and develop more slowly.
● Unexplained weight loss
● Increased urination, especially at night
● Increased thirst
● Tiredness
● Itching around the genitals
● Blurred vision
● Slow healing of cut and wounds
● Development of dark, velvety patches of skin

Parents and caregivers must notice the symptoms mentioned above and visit health experts for any visible signs.

Causes of diabetes in children and teenagers

Although causes of developing diabetes in children and teenagers are not entirely known, the main reasons behind diagnosing with diabetes are;
● Being overweight
● A strong family history
● Increasing rates of obesity
● Genetics

How to help children and teenagers in establishing a routine to manage their diabetes?

Young people with diabetes needs help and support from their parents and loved ones to establish a routine to manage their diabetes. It includes:
● Regular blood glucose monitoring
● Injecting insulin
● Follow the advice of a diabetes care advocate
● Learning nutrients counting
● Coping with fluctuating blood sugar levels

Prevention Tips

Currently, it is not possible to prevent type 1 diabetes in children and teenagers, but it can be managed by following the mentioned tips. ● Maintain a moderate weight: Generally, type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce insulin which increases the chance of insulin resistance, and weight plays a crucial role. So, it is essential to maintain a moderate weight to prevent diabetes.
● Stick to a balanced diet: Diet plays a crucial role in not only preventing diabetes but for the overall well-being of a person. Consuming high sugar food in massive amounts results in weight gain and problems with insulin functions. So, it is advisable to consume a balanced and nutrient-rich diet full of vitamins, protein and fiber to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
● Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine: Working out reduces insulin resistance and helps manage blood pressure. So, it is advisable to work out daily to minimize the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Final Words-

Diabetes in children and teenagers is rising. Although type 1 is more common than type 2 in young people, both are still increasing. Parents and caregivers must pay attention to their children’s health and should not overlook these symptoms. Also, it is essential to follow a good healthcare routine, including the intake of a healthy diet, regular workouts and medication to manage the symptoms of diabetes.

It is essential to increase knowledge as there is no prevention without expertise. So, if you are looking for a source on regular health-related updates, visit https://epillo.com

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