Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms in Children
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Identifying Type 1 Diabetes in Children & Teens
More often than not, type 1 diabetes begins to manifest during childhood and adolescence. This makes it imperative for parents to know the warning signs of this chronic health condition. The health experts at Ridgecrest Regional Hospital are here to share the signs and symptoms you should be on the lookout for.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic health condition in which the pancreas cannot produce insulin or make a very small amount of insulin. Insulin is the hormone primarily responsible for helping your blood sugar enter the cells throughout the body, which is then turned into fuel. If your body isn’t producing enough insulin, the sugar found in your blood continues to build up since it cannot enter your cells.
How Diabetes Can Affect the Body is Left Untreated
When your blood sugar stays too high for too long, it can leave you at an increased risk for developing the following health complications:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Kidney issues
- Heart disease
Signs & Symptoms
It is important to keep in mind that symptoms of type 1 diabetes typically come on suddenly, so it is important for parents to act fast and seek medical attention if they notice any of these warning signs.
The most commonly reported symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children and teens include:
- Increased thirst
- Dehydration
- Frequent urination
- Bed-wetting
- Unintentional weight loss
- Increased hunger
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Behavioral changes
- Increased irritability
- Fruity-smelling breath
Pediatric Care in Ridgecrest, California
As a parent, finding the right healthcare provider for your child is important for ensuring their health and wellness. At Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, we are proud to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients of all ages, close to home.
Our board-certified pediatricians and family care providers provide:
- Annual check-ups
- School and sports physicals
- Treatment for minor injuries and illnesses
- Vaccinations
- Asthma and allergy care
- Early detection of behavioral health disorders
To learn more about our pediatric healthcare services, visit our website or give us a call at (760) 446-3551 (Mon-Fri 8 AM-5 PM) to schedule an appointment.
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