Caring for Diabetes in toddlers is a tough task for any parent. Children in this stage are just learning to talk, so they are not able to communicate in a manner that conveys how they are feeling. In addition, children may display behavior consistent with the “terrible two’s” phase making irritable or fussy behavior seem ordinary. Parents need to understand the signs of diabetes in toddlers and act accordingly. When a child displays one or two of these symptoms, it may be the result of other conditions, but when many symptoms present, it is time for the parent to schedule an urgent visit with their pediatrician.
To comprehend the symptoms of Diabetes, one must be able to comprehend the disease itself. Diabetes in toddlers is also referred to by a myriad of names. Due to the typical age of onset, it used to be called only Juvenile Diabetes. As adults can get this type of Diabetes, it is now referred to as Type 1 Diabetes, or Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus. This type is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system has attacked the pancreas’ beta cells, leaving them unable to secrete insulin necessary for glucose transfer and conversion into energy. This action leaves children with high levels of glucose in their blood, which is very dangerous. Medical professionals theorize that it is caused by a virus, infection, or vitamin deficiency.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Toddlers
Symptoms of Diabetes in toddlers usually occur suddenly and the two classic diabetes symptoms in toddlers is a limitless need to drink fluids and to urinate. Toddlers will urinate more because they drink more, but the main reason they do both is due to the elevated blood glucose levels. The excess sugar acts like a poison in the blood, and the kidneys work hard to flush out this toxin. In doing so, they remove vital fluids, causing excessive thirst and urination.
Other diabetes in toddler’s symptoms may include an increase in their appetite paired with or without weight loss, which is also due to extra sugar in the blood. Calories are unable to be absorbed so the body is malnourished. A child who loses weight or stops gaining at a level appropriate for his age should be examined by his pediatrician.
Juvenile Diabetes Symptoms in Toddlers
Juvenile Diabetes symptoms in toddlers can be confused for regular toddler decorum. For example, toddlers can be fussy when they are tired, thirsty, or hungry. If adequate rest, food, and drink do not resolve the issue, then parents should inquire if there is another problem at hand. Likewise, some toddlers are prone to thrush (yeast infection) and diaper rash. They can develop either condition if they are on antibiotics or if their diaper is not changed frequently. Juvenile Diabetes in toddlers can present as recurring yeast or other infection. Other signs of Diabetes in toddlers may be less obvious, but include breath that smells sweet or fruity and a lack of energy.
