Managing Diabetes in Children: Causes, Challenges, Symptoms and Psychological Impact – What the Experts Say

Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar, also called blood glucose, is too high. This can happen when your body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it does produce is not effective or when the body does not produce any insulin at all. While diabetes is a chronic condition that can have serious health implications, doctors say what is worrying is the fact that cases of diabetes are on the rise even among children. Dr Sajili Mehta, Senior Consultant, Pediatric Endocrinology at Surya Mother and Child Super Specialty Hospital, Pune says, “According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years suffer from type 2 diabetes. And about 25 million people in India are at high risk of getting diabetes in the near future.” She says that not only adults, but children also have diabetes, and unfortunately in recent times, there has been an increase in the number of children getting diabetes. happened.

High Blood Sugar: What Causes Diabetes in Children?

Dr. Sajili Mehta says that the causes of diabetes in children can vary depending on the type of diabetes they have. The two main types of diabetes in children are type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. “Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, is a persistent health condition. This disorder is characterized by insufficient or no insulin production by the pancreas, a hormone that allows sugar (glucose) to enter cells. and is important for being able to produce energy. While the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.”

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Talking about type 2 diabetes, she says, “Type 2 diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance. It is generally associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet. Over the years, there has been an increase in the number of children who develop type 2 diabetes, mainly due to the increase in childhood obesity.

symptoms of diabetes in children

The symptoms of diabetes in children can be similar to those in adults, says Dr Mehta, but sometimes they can be different. Common symptoms include:

1. Frequent urge to urinate

2. Excessive thirst

3. Weight loss (despite increased appetite)

4. Exhaustion or exhaustion

5. Slow wound healing or frequent infections

6. Irritability or mood swings

Management of Diabetes in Children

Managing diabetes in children requires a comprehensive approach including lifestyle changes, medication, and regular medical care. Dr. Mehta shared some key aspects of diabetes management in children:

• Regular blood glucose monitoring

• Nutritious food

• physical activity

Diabetes Management: The Challenges Children and Families Face

Dr. Mehta points out that the young age of children can make managing this chronic disease especially challenging. According to the doctor, some of the challenges associated with managing diabetes in children include:

Pain and discomfort: Repeated finger pricking can cause discomfort and pain in children, especially if they have sensitive skin or are afraid of needles. This can lead to anxiety or resistance to blood sugar testing.

Emotional and Psychological Effects: Living with diabetes can be emotionally challenging for children and their families. Routine blood sugar monitoring can sometimes lead to emotional distress, especially for young children who may not fully understand the reasons behind the test. It is important to provide emotional support, reassurance, and positive reinforcement during the process.

School and Social Settings: Children with diabetes may face unique challenges in school and in the social environment. It is important to educate teachers, caregivers, and peers about the condition and how to respond to emergencies.

Also Read: Diabetes – 5 Best Teas For People With High Blood Sugar

High Blood Sugar in Children: Do’s and Don’ts

When it comes to managing diabetes in children, Dr. Sajili Mehta mentions the following: Do’s and Don’ts:

worth doing:

– Encourage a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise and a balanced diet.

As the child gets older, foster self-care skills, such as monitoring blood sugar levels and giving insulin.

what not to do:

– Do not ignore or neglect the importance of regular medical check-ups and follow-ups.

Don’t let diabetes limit a child’s activities or limit their aspirations.