Diabetes
Heart/ Blood Conditions
Diabetes
FACTS:
- Diabetes is a disease in which the pancreas (a small organ behind the stomach) does not produce a hormone called insulin. Insulin converts the food we eat into the energy our bodies need for daily life. Everyone needs insulin in order to live, so children with diabetes need to get insulin in other ways.
- Without proper treatment, diabetes can lead to problems with a child’s heart, eyes, kidneys, legs, nerves, and skin. If a child is injured, they might not heal properly.
- Some of the symptoms of diabetes include being very thirsty, having to urinate a lot, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and being really tired. Some children will have stomach pain. Untreated diabetes can also lead to coma and death. Any child with these symptoms should be seen by a doctor immediately.
- A child who is diagnosed with diabetes can lead a normal life if their blood sugars are monitored and controlled by eating healthy foods and taking insulin injections.
TREATMENT:
- Blood sugar levels need to be monitored closely.
- Insulin is given according to the Doctor’s instructions. It is usually given by injection with a small needle under the skin.
- It is important for the child to have regular meals on a schedule with a snack at bedtime.
- Inability to concentrate, lethargy, agitation, sudden mood changes may be an indication that the blood sugar is low and the brain needs sugar and carbohydrates.
- If a child’s blood sugar level becomes too high, symptoms often include headache, drowsiness, nausea, fruity smelling breath, and extreme thirst. Call a doctor immediately.
- Meats and non-starchy vegetables may be eaten freely but fruit, sweets containing sugar and starchy foods like bread, rice, and crackers need to be closely monitored as they release sugars into the blood .
- Exercise also lowers blood glucose levels so food needs to be consumed before and after. The doctor can advise on the best possible plan for the child.
- There is no cure for diabetes. Treatment involves medicines, diet, and exercise to control blood sugar and prevent symptoms.
