It is a big misconception that diabetes (type 2) doesn’t prevail in children. But it is not so. Type 2 diabetes exists in children as well.
But wait…
Do you know what type 2 diabetes is all about?
If not, read on. We have focused everything that you should know about type 2 diabetes here…
Diabetes Type 2 – A Quick Overview
It is a deadly health condition. Leaves have an immense effect on the body – metabolism of glucose or body sugar. According to research and studies, during 2011 and 2012, approximately 23& of the diabetes patients were children.
Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
The main reason for type 2 diabetes is obesity or being overweight. Reason being obese children have a tendency to resist insulin. When and if the body regulates high blood pressure or insulin, chances of getting into fatal health issues increase.
Genetics is another potential reason for getting into this health condition. For instance, it is way riskier if a child’s both or one parent is diagnosed with diabetes.
Diabetes Symptoms in Children
One finds it hard to spot diabetes type 2 in children. It is because the disease isn’t obvious in the first few months. What does it mean? It clearly means the symptoms start appearing gradually. Children don’t show symptoms as such at the start.
However, certain symptoms can work as detecting pointers. Those may include one or more symptoms mentioned below.
- Extreme Thirst
Please note if the child is thirsty more than a regular need. It can actually guide as a symptom because excessive thirst could be the reason for type 2 diabetes in children.
- Sores and Injuries Heals Slowly
Another sign of diabetes type 2 is slow healing. It clearly means that the infections or sored skin take longer than the estimated time to heal.
- Disproportionate Fatigue
Another sign that actually guides about the symptoms of diabetes type 2 is excessive fatigue. It is quite understandable that children have the potential of being fatigued. But anything out of proportion could be alarming. This is because of the inappropriate, less, or more supply of sugar in the body.
- Increased Hunger
Body fuel isn’t produced in the right amount. It is because insulin is not enough for the body. Therefore, consumption of food becomes high because it is the only fuel they are sustaining upon. In medical language, it is a condition called hyperphagia.
- Darkened Skin Tone
Skin gets dark due to insulin resistance. Mostly neck and armpits are blackened or get extremely dark. In case a child suffers from diabetes type 2, parents and guardians will notice areas of dark skin. In medical language, this condition is termed “acanthosis nigricans”.
- Frequent Urination
Excessive sugar may produce because of extreme sugar levels. Excessive sugar is added into urine and water. That makes the child use loo frequently. Children who go on frequent breaks to the loo in school should be monitored. Also, it is a must for the teachers to bring this in parents’ notice/
Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis in Children
Diabetes doctors are the best source of correct diagnosis. However, diabetes in children should get tested by pediatricians. Following tests are carried out if there are alarming symptoms.
- Glucose intolerance test
- A1C test
- Blood glucose test
Risk Factors Associated with Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Studies and research reveal that diabetes type 2 in children is mostly seen between 10 and 19 years of age.
Risk factors revolving around diabetes type 2 include;
- Parents or siblings have diabetes type 2
- Exhibits insulin resistance
- Have dark patches
- Africans, Asians, Native Americans, Latino, and Pacific Islanders
- Overweight or obesity
Diabetes Treatment in Children
When it comes to diabetes treatment, it remains the same as adults. The plan of treatment however varies according to the physiology and the ratio of insulin growth. teachers, guardians, babysitters, parents, and even siblings should know about the medical needs of kids with diabetes. Discussing the plan with a doctor in this regard is always helpful.
- Exercise and Diet
Children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are guided by dietary needs. Exercise for them is another add-on that has to be catered to regardless of any condition. Keeping a check on the number of carbohydrates is always helpful.
- Monitoring Blood Sugar
Monitoring blood sugar regularly is another way to keep everything in balance. Besides that, children should have a check on the reactions and responses in the body during the course of treatment. Using a meter to check blood glucose is quite handy for the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions – Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Is diabetes a disease?
Diabetes is a health condition. It occurs when the sugar level in the blood gets too high. Many people as paramedics take it as a disease.
Can diabetes be cured?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. However, there are fair chances of going into remission. It means, the signs of diabetes don’t occur but technically, it is still present.
What are the main diabetes prevention strategies?
Some of the main preventive measures of diabetes include working out regularly, avoiding sedentary behavior, quit on smoking, cutting sugar and carbs intake, losing weight, and watching a portion of the diet.
What is the perfect diabetes diet plan for children?
Mainly diabetes diet plan is of three kinds – carbs count meal plans, exchange meal plans, and regular carbs meal plan. It is about the doctor who decides the best one for children.
Take Away Note
It is not easy to predict type 2 diabetes in children. Likewise, the outcomes in the form of responses are equally hard at times. Type 2 diabetes in children is not very common. That’s the reason why studies associated with treatment, diabetes causes, and outcomes are still going on.