Pregnancy And Baby Care Toddler Diabetes Toddler Diabetes Symptoms

Toddler diabetes

...sugars called glucose.

The body receives its energy from glucose; therefore glucose is a rich source of energy for the body. This glucose is used by the cells of the body for energy and growth. For this process the body needs insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. In healthy children, this insulin, which is important for moving the glucose from the bloodstream into the body cells, is automatically produced by the pancreas.

If your toddler has type 1 diabetes, then it means that the pancreas is not producing insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the case is different – insulin is produced by the body but the body cells cannot absorb the insulin. In both, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, there is a build up of glucose, which means that the glucose cannot be used for energy.

Proper treatment and careful monitoring can keep the diabetes under check. But if the disease isn’t managed properly, then it can cause a lot of other health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, blindness, loss of limbs, osteoporosis, skin infections, and even death.

Causes for Toddler Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disorder, can trigger the body to attack its own insulin-producing cells, which are present in the pancreas. Generally toddlers develop this type of diabetes.

Symptoms of toddler diabetes

You might want to speak with your doctor if your child has some of the following symptoms. The diabetes symptoms in toddlers are as follows:

• A fruity breath that smells a bit like wine
• Sudden weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Irritability and fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
  

These are the symptoms of diabetes in toddlers, and you should alert your doctor if you see any of these in your toddler.

Treatment for Toddler Diabetes

Proper care and regular monitoring is very important for Type 1 diabetes. If your child has this type of diabetes then you can do the following –

• You need to check if his glucose levels are within a safe range. You can do this by using a blood glucose meter and need to do this regularly.
• You’ll need to give him insulin shots. Your health care practitioner can guide you in this matter.
• Regular exercise and a right diet are important for keeping a check on the disease. A nutritionist will be able to help you.
• Take your toddler to the dentist and doctor for regular scheduled visits.