An Overview of Pediatric Diabetes Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Is My Child Diabetic?

Considered a prevalant chronic disorder in children, pediatric Type 2 Diabetes is increasing in numbers with 10 to 15 percent of all children becoming obese leading to a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis.   For many parents, allowing children to eat what they want when they want it, results in a signifcant health hazard and may have life long implications.   Understanding proper eating habits, the importance of fitness and the treatment options will ensure the child is protected from life threatening complications.

For a child suffering from Type 2 Diabetes, the pancreas is not correctly maintaining insulin in the body.   Symptoms of pediatric Type 2 Diabetes may include an increase in urination frequency,  fatigue, significant weight fluctuations and extreme thirst.  For children with a severe case of untreated Type 2 diabetes, the emotional state may become extremely irritable and lethargic.  It is when the child becomes lethargic that many parents then step in and begin to focus on the diet and exercise of the child.    When continually untreated, pediatric Type 2 Diabetes may lead to blindness, non healing infections and, ultimately, kidney infections and renal failure.

For a child suffering from pediatric Type 2 Diabetes, diet and exercise are important.  Providing a healthy diet at home will guide the child into healthy eating habits into adulthood.   The pediatrician will commonly recommend a decrease in sugar and complex carbohydrates and an exercise program for the diabetic child followed by frequent doctor's appointments to check the health status and glucose levels of the child.   

When diet and exercise do not prove successful, in the treatment of pediatric Type 2 Diabetes, the pediatrician may suggest prescription insulin regulating medications which vary from oral tablet administration to insulin injections.  For most children, falling into the routine of daily medication administration is quite difficult.