Daijiworld Media Network –Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 6: Diabetes, a lifelong and chronic illness that affects millions globally, is no longer an adult-only disease. Alarmingly, it is now increasingly being diagnosed in children — sometimes as early as toddlerhood. If not managed in time, diabetes can severely impact the heart, nerves, eyes, and overall health. So how do parents identify the early signs of diabetes in children?

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Insulin is essential to allow sugar to enter cells for energy.

• Type 2 Diabetes: More commonly seen in adults, this form is now rising among children due to poor diet and sedentary lifestyles. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin.

Both forms lead to high blood sugar, which can result in serious complications without proper management.

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)

If your child is visiting the bathroom more than usual — even waking up multiple times at night — this could be due to high sugar levels forcing the kidneys to flush out excess glucose.

2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)

Increased urination leads to dehydration, which results in the child feeling constantly thirsty despite drinking lots of water.

3. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)

Even after eating well, the child may still feel hungry because the body isn’t using glucose properly for energy.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

Despite a healthy or increased appetite, children may lose weight rapidly as the body starts using fat and muscle for energy.

5. Fatigue and Weakness

Children may seem unusually tired or less active. Their energy levels can dip due to the body’s inability to convert sugar into usable energy.

6. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar can change fluid levels in the eyes, affecting vision and making it hard for children to focus.

7. Slow Healing of Cuts and Wounds

Wounds may take longer to heal due to compromised immunity and circulation.

8. Recurrent Infections

Children may suffer from frequent infections — especially urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections.

DKA is a life-threatening complication of diabetes and needs emergency care. Be alert if your child shows:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Rapid, deep breathing

• Fruity-smelling breath

• Confusion, lethargy, or unconsciousness

Proper care and education can help children live a full and healthy life:

• Healthy Diet: Balanced meals with limited refined sugars and careful carbohydrate monitoring.

• Physical Activity: Daily exercise helps control sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.

• Medication: Type 1 diabetes requires insulin injections; some Type 2 cases need oral medication.

• Monitoring: Frequent blood sugar checks are crucial to maintain safe glucose levels.

• Education: Parents and children must understand the condition to manage it confidently.