Juvenile diabetic, also called insulin dependent,is a term used to describe an individual with type 1 diabetes. This form of diabetes is an endocrine condition that usually affects younger individuals, but can develop at any age. Experts believe it is caused by certain genetics, vitamin deficiencies, or infections, but they know that it is not due to being overweight or having high blood pressure. In this chronic disease, the immune system is over active and attacks the pancreas’ beta cells leaving them unable to produce adequate, if any, levels of insulin.
Insulin is required to transfer glucose from the bloodstream into the muscles, fat, and tissue where it will be converted into energy for the body. Without the vital insulin, the conversion of fuel cannot happen and the body is literally left without energy. The person does have a high blood glucose level, which can be extremely dangerous. If left untreated, the juvenile diabetic can enter ketoacidosis, in which they begin to burn fat for energy and then toxic ketones, or acids in the blood, presents in their urine. Without immediate medical care, a person can become comatose, and possibly die.
Juvenile Diabetic – Treatment & Care
Being diagnosed as a juvenile diabetic must be frightening for a child, especially when they are informed that they need insulin on a daily basis in order to live. Treatment and care is extremely important as without this life saving hormone, they can die. It is important for children and adolescents to understand the depths of their disease and to have a team of specialists assisting them in their treatment and recovery.
As every aspect of their health is vital, they need a doctor for their general well-being, a dietician for their meal planning, a counselor for their emotional stability, and a responsible parent who can oversee their daily routine and act as a liaison for the rest of the team. Enrolling the child in some type of sports or fitness program is suggested to keep them in peak fitness and to help stabilize their blood sugar levels.
Juvenile Diabetic – Types of Insulin
All individuals who are diagnosed as a juvenile diabetic will need insulin therapy to survive. Insulin cannot be taken orally as the stomach secretes enzymes that interfere with the action of insulin. The recommended method of dosage is through injection via a needle, pen, or pump. A needle and syringe is a very basic procedure, but a pen resembles an actual ink pen, but instead of having ink in the cartridge, it has insulin in it. The pump is a discreet device that is worn on the abdomen, arms or legs and has a connective tube for insulin connected to a catheter. Patients can program their dosage times so they never have to inject themselves.
Once they have decided on the mode of insulin, their doctor will help them determine which type of insulin is best for them. The three types are rapid acting, long acting, and intermediate options. A doctor may prescribe one or all three in addition to drugs for high blood pressure and cholesterol. If a healthy diet and exercise are followed, these oral medications should not be necessary.
