Diabetes

Even “normal” illnesses like colds and flu can cause special problems for a child with diabetes. Some illnesses interfere with the way insulin works, so the child will need extra insulin. If a child can’t eat or is vomiting, it may be hard to keep blood sugar up. Get A Written Plan Get an action […]

It is very important for the child, you, and other adults in the child’s life to keep the diabetes in perspective. Remember, children with diabetes can do almost anything other kids can do, provided their diabetes is under control. However, it’s important for teachers, the school nurse, school secretary, day care workers, and coaches to

Encourage your child to take part in school-sponsored athletics and to sign up for sports teams after school. This will do two things: It will program exercise into your child’s life. Ideally, children with diabetes should have at least 30 minutes of activity a day. Exercise helps their bodies use insulin more efficiently and gives

Finding a sitter for a young child with diabetes requires special consideration. The best choice may be a teenager who also has diabetes. You can find such people through your local chapter of the American Diabetes Association. Here’s a checklist for notes to leave with the sitter. Write down: Where you can be reached Doctor’s

If diabetes isn’t well controlled, over the years it can lead to a risk of other problems, such as: Kidney trouble Heart disease Damage to the eyes Problems in the nerves, especially those affecting the feet Although these complications aren’t likely to cause problems until adulthood, damage to blood vessels and organs can start before

Here are some frequently asked questions related to diabetes in children. Q: Diabetes runs in my family, and I’m concerned that my children might be affected. What symptoms should I watch for? A: Only your children’s doctor can tell for sure if they have diabetes. They may have some or none of the following symptoms: frequent

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to diabetes in children. Here’s a summary of what your child needs to do (with your help) in order to stay healthy: Test blood sugar at least twice a day and keep results for reference. Take insulin shots in the dose and at the times prescribed

Here are definitions of medical terms related to diabetes in children. Endocrinologist: A physician who specializes in the endocrine system, which is the network of glands and other structures that secrete hormones and affect the function of certain organs. Finger stick: The act of puncturing the tip of the finger to get a small sample of blood.

Diabetes is often diagnosed by measuring fasting glucose levels. If that value is lower than the value necessary to diagnose diabetes but your doctor suspects you still may have diabetes, an oral glucose tolerance test may be done. This is a special test that shows how well the body uses glucose. Talk to your doctor

Treating diabetes is a team effort. You (the parents or guardians) and the child are the most important members of this team, working closely with the child’s doctor, who may be a pediatrician or an endocrinologist. In addition, the care team may include: A diabetes educator (often a nurse) A dietitian A psychologist or other

Diabetes can’t be cured, but it can be controlled. The treatment varies according to how much insulin the body makes, and how well the body is able to use available insulin. Many people with type 2 diabetes can control their diabetes at first by losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Others also

In the early stages, you may be able to control your diabetes without medication, by looking after yourself carefully. But if you are taking medication, taking care of yourself is just as important. It will help the medication work much better. Things you can do to control your diabetes include: Control your weight. For many people