In the past, the most common type of diabetes to affect children and teens was type 1 diabetes, also referred to as juvenile diabetes. While type 1 diabetes is quite common in children, pediatricians are also seeing a rise in type 2 diabetes in children and teens, coinciding with an increase in childhood obesity rates.
Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 5 and 6, and 11 to 13. Symptoms typically appear suddenly and include frequent urination particularly at night, excessive thirst or hunger, weight loss despite increased appetite, and cuts or wounds that don’t heal or are slow to heal.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Unlike type 1, type 2 diabetes symptoms usually appear gradually. If your child is obese or overweight, they may be at an increased risk. Symptoms are similar to type 1, with the marked differences being blurry vision, severe fatigue, and tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
Treating Diabetes in Children
Even though there is no cure for diabetes, treatment can control blood sugar levels to prevent complications. Standard treatment includes managing diabetes through insulin therapy, monitoring blood sugar levels throughout the day, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise.