TYPE 2 DIABETES IN CHILDREN

Overview and Facts

It’s been a long time since type 2 diabetes was viewed as an adult condition. Indeed, type 2 diabetes was once called adult-onset diabetes. But this disease seems to be ending up also in children.

 

Type 2 diabetes is an long-term condition that influences how the body processes sugar, which is called glucose. This condition represents less than 3 percent of all recently diagnosed diabetes cases in children.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes are not easy to spot. The nature of the disease grows gradual, making the symptoms difficult to identify. Numerous individuals don’t feel any manifestations. In various cases, children may not demonstrate any signs.

If you suspect that your child has diabetes, watch out for these symptoms:

  1. Over-fatigue-Your child is always tired and sleepy, because the changes in glucose levels affect their energy levels
  2. Urge to urinate more often- High glucose levels affect the circulation of the body, making sugar manifest itself in urine. This is the main reason why your diabetic child often rushes to the restroom.
  3. Unexplained thirst -Children who have excessive thirst may have high blood glucose levels.
  4. Increased craving -Glucose is a source of energy, so diabetic kids may encounter hunger most of the time.
  5. Poor wound healing-Wounds or infections do not heal easily may be caused by type 2 diabetes.
  6. Dark skin –Insulin resistance can make the skin dark, usually in the armpits and neck. This condition is called acanthosis nigricans.

 

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Type 2 diabetes in children is diagnosed by a pediatrician. If your kid’s doctor speculates that your kid may have type 2 diabetes, he or she may request for a urine glucose examination, a blood glucose test, a glucose tolerance test, or an A1C test.

TREATMENT

Treatment for children with type 2 diabetes is also similar to the treatment for adults. The treatment plan may differ as indicated by the developing needs and issues of your child.

The following can be considered beneficial to those with type 2 diabetes:

  • Blood sugarmonitoring
  • Proper diet and exercise

 

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