What is pediatric diabetes?

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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases found in children and adolescents. Treatment is multifaceted and essential to preventing the serious complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Definition

Occurring as type 1 or type 2, diabetes results when children are unable to produce or utilize insulin appropriately. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that breaks down the sugar (glucose) in blood.

Significance

Glucose provides our bodies with energy for muscle and tissue development. Without insulin or with too little insulin in the bloodstream to help glucose do its work, it simply passes out of the body with the urine.

Type 1 vs. Type 2

Type 1 diabetes is most often due to an immunologic disorder that destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. In type 2, the pancreas may still produce insulin but not enough, or the child's cells may be resistant to its action. Doctors once thought children only developed type 1, but the CDC notes that research shows children also develop type 2.

Symptoms

WebMD reports symptoms of increased thirst and urination, extreme hunger, fatigue, irritability and slowly healing cuts or sores. Symptoms are similar for both types.

Treatment

According to the Mayo Clinic, type 1 requires insulin injections. Type 2 may require oral medications. Treatment plans for both types include healthy, balanced diets with routine exercise and close monitoring by physicians.

Source:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Diabetes Projects

WebMD: Type 2 Diabetes in Children

Mayo Clinic: Type 1 Diabetes in Children

More Information:

American Diabetes Association

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What is pediatric diabetes?

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