Reprinted Articles

Being a kid can be tough. Kids face all kinds of growing pains, from sibling rivalries and playground bullies to growth spurts and acne. But none of these challenges are as difficult as those faced by kids with chronic medical conditions.

Juvenile diabetes is a disease that hinders childhood and can also brutally change the shape of adulthood. Even healthy, active kids with juvenile diabetes must face this opponent every day of their lives. Juvenile diabetes can rob kids of their good health as they grow into adults. As a parent, you can take necessary steps today to help raise a healthier kid.

Causes and symptoms of juvenile diabetes are easily misunderstood and misinterpreted. These are the facts that every parent must be aware of:

Juvenile Diabetes Basics

First and foremost, you need to that you are not to blame for your child’s condition. It’s also important that your child understands that he or she did bring on the disease. In spite of what many people believe, Type I or “juvenile” diabetes cannot be caused by sugar overload or childhood obesity. This is a genetic condition.

When kids have juvenile diabetes, an autoimmune response to pancreatic antigens is created, causing these proteins to break down. The pancreas delivers the insulin that breaks down glucose and converts the glucose into energy. In the United States alone, approximately 1.4 million people suffer from this form of diabetes.

Symptoms and Effects

There is a long list of possible side effects associated with juvenile diabetes. Kids can suffer with foot ulcers, digestive problems, possible kidney failure, difficulties with eyesight and even blindness. Symptoms of juvenile diabetes can include weight loss, blurred vision, excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue or lethargy and a numbing or tingling sensation in the hands and feet. If your child talks about having one or more of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your physician right away.

Treatment Options

While the cause of juvenile diabetes cannot be prevented, there are treatment methods available to help to control the disease and lessen your child’s discomfort. See if there is a diabetes clinic in your area and, if possible, insist on a referral to a doctor specializing in juvenile diabetes. He or she will prescribe insulin and provide a special diet and exercise regime for your child. The doctor will also show you how to regularly monitor your child’s glucose levels.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the medications are administered properly, and that your child eats the right types of food. You also need to be sure that your child stays healthy and active, as exercise will help to stave off any complications from this illness.

Parents naturally want to prevent our children from harm and suffering; but unfortunately, some things are simply out of our control. Juvenile diabetes is a genetic disease that cannot be prevented. There are, however, precautions that may be taken.

See your doctor if you are concerned that your child may have juvenile diabetes. If anyone in your family has a history of diabetes, make sure that you know how to spot all of the signs and symptoms.

Be prepared to take steps to help keep your child healthy. Smart food choices and plenty of exercise can help ensure that your child enjoys the healthy, carefree lifestyle that every kid deserves.

Tags: Diabetes