Type 1 diabetes in children: Causes, symptoms, expert tips on ways to manage the condition

Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence and is not reversible. (Image: Canva)

Type 1 diabetes in children is a chronic autoimmune condition where the pancreas fails to produce insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to lifestyle factors, Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence and is not preventable. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

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While there's no known way to reverse Type 1 diabetes, early diagnosis and lifelong management are critical. Education and ongoing support help manage the condition effectively, ensuring a better quality of life for affected children. Delhi-based paediatrician Raghav Sharma lists some common symptoms of children suffering from Type 1 diabetes along with preventive measures.

Symptoms

Frequent urination: When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to filter and absorb the excess glucose, leading to increased urine production and more frequent trips to the bathroom.

Increased thirst: Frequent urination can cause dehydration. As a result, the child may feel excessively thirsty and drink more fluids to compensate.

Extreme hunger: Without enough insulin, the body cannot effectively convert glucose from food into energy. This leads to persistent hunger as the body signals that it needs more food to meet energy demands.

Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating more, the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy due to a lack of insulin. This results in weight loss even if the child is eating normally.

Fatigue: Without adequate insulin, glucose cannot enter the cells to provide energy. This can make the child feel unusually tired and lethargic.

Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from tissues, including the lenses of the eyes, leading to temporary blurred vision.

Irritability: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect mood and behaviour, leading to irritability or mood swings.

Ketones in urine: When the body starts breaking down fat for energy due to a lack of glucose, it produces ketones, which can be detected in urine and indicate that the body is not managing glucose properly.

Preventive measures

Early diagnosis: Regular paediatric check-ups can help identify symptoms early. Early diagnosis is crucial for starting treatment and managing the condition effectively.

Genetic screening: Genetic testing can sometimes identify children who are at higher risk of developing Type 1 diabetes. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t prevent the condition but can help with early monitoring.

Education: Educating parents and caretakers about the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes can lead to earlier recognition and intervention. This knowledge helps in managing the condition and reducing complications.

Healthy lifestyle: While a healthy lifestyle cannot prevent Type 1 diabetes, it supports overall health and helps manage the condition if it develops. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Management

Lifelong insulin therapy: Children with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to replace the insulin their body can’t produce.

Monitoring blood glucose levels: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to ensure they are within a target range and to adjust insulin doses accordingly.

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle: A balanced diet and regular exercise help manage blood sugar levels and support overall health.