It might surprise you, but children do suffer from diabetes. The first type, also known as juvenile diabetes, Type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes, occurs when a child cannot produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone necessary for survival. Doctors usually inject it or give it via an insulin pump to the child.
In most cases, doctors find it hard to diagnose Type 1 diabetes in children. And the diagnosis may happen when the child lands up in the hospital, with vomiting or other problems.
Rising incidence of Type 2 diabetes in children
The other type of diabetes that is common in children is- Type 2 diabetes. While family history and genetics play an important role, inactivity and fat around the belly are other very important factors that can cause Type 2 diabetes in children. Children get Type 2 diabetes when their body becomes resistant to insulin. It can also happen when their pancreas fails to make adequate insulin concerning their body weight. Parents can consult the best pediatric doctor in Delhi to understand more about the causes of Type 2 diabetes in children.
Till a few years back, Type 2 diabetes was predominantly an adult condition. But with the rise in childhood obesity, Type 2 diabetes in children is on the rise. It affects the way a child processes glucose. Just like in adults, proper treatment is very important for Type 2 diabetes in children. Otherwise, it can lead to sugar build-up in the blood and cause serious long-term consequences.
A lot can be done to prevent Type 2 diabetes among children. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and a healthy weight can keep your child safe. However, if these do not control or prevent the condition, oral medication or eventually insulin treatment might be necessary. If you are in Delhi and are worried about your child’s obesity visit the best pediatrician in Delhi NCR today. You can also consult the best pediatrician online on DocGenie.
Causes
Medical science is yet to confirm the specific causes of childhood diabetes (both Type 1 and Type 2). But reports say that the immune system of those afflicted with type 1 diabetes destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas by mistake. Once these cells are destroyed, a child’s body fails to produce insulin which transfers sugar from the child’s bloodstream to his/her cells to produce energy. Without sufficient insulin, sugar builds up in the child’s bloodstream.
If not treated early it can lead to life-threatening health problems. If you are in Delhi, consult the best pediatric doctor or the best Endocrinologist in Delhi today to know more about the causes of Type 1 diabetes in children.
Also read: Why You Should Choose Pediatricians Over Family Doctors For Your Child
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