Childhood diabetes symptoms typically start because the pancreas is not functioning properly. The pancreas produces the insulin hormone, which is used by the body to metabolize blood sugar. When the pancreas does not produce enough of the insulin hormone, blood sugar increases (hyperglycemia), which causes type 1 diabetes mellitus (aka juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes).

Type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children. At one time, type 2 diabetes was also known as adult onset diabetes. However, the obesity epidemic in children is becoming more and more prevalent. This is leading to increased type 2 diabetes mellitus in children. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. The pancreas produces insulin, but the body is unable to properly use the hormone to metabolize blood sugar.

The symptoms for childhood diabetes can come on quickly and be fairly obvious. However, the symptoms of childhood diabetes can …