Signs and Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes in Kids

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This condition results in a lack of insulin, which is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Generally, type I diabetes is commonly diagnosed in children, teenagers, or adolescents.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 187,000 children and adolescents under age 20 are diagnosed with diabetes, with major cases of Type I diabetes. If left untreated, it can also result in severe complications, including life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In the U.S. alone, Type 1 diabetes affects about 1 in every 400-500 children and adolescents, as per a report by the American Diabetes Association.

Read this article to learn about the signs and symptoms of Type I diabetes in kids and why it happens so.

Here are some common symptoms that can indicate type I diabetes in kids.

Excess sugar in the blood results in the kidneys having to work harder to filter and absorb it. And when they can't keep up, the excess glucose is excreted in urine, leading to a frequent urge to urinate. If your child is young, you might also notice him wetting the bed after being potty-trained.

As the body excretes more urine, it becomes dehydrated, causing the child to feel extremely thirsty. Therefore, despite drinking large amounts of water, the thirst might seem unquenchable. If you notice your child constantly asking for water, it may be a strong indication of type I diabetes.

Due to the lack of insulin, the body can’t use glucose for energy, leading to feelings of extreme hunger, even after eating. When the body cells are starved of energy, they signal the brain to give hunger prompts. If your child is eating more than usual, it could be a red flag too.

Despite increased eating, children with Type 1 diabetes may lose weight. This is because their bodies start breaking down muscle and fat for energy as they cannot absorb sugar in the blood. If you suspect sudden weight loss in your child, seek immediate medical advice from your doctor.

Children can also become extremely tired and lethargic. This happens because the body cannot use glucose for energy. You might also notice your child having difficulty concentrating or losing interest in activities.

The fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause mood swings, irritability, and unusual behavior in children. This results in frustration and restlessness in kids. While mood swings are common in children and may not typically indicate Type I diabetes in kids, if you notice persistent irritability, it could definitely be a strong indicator.

High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses of the eyes to swell, leading to blurred vision. Your kid might struggle with difficulty seeing the board in school or express that things look fuzzy. Thus, a sudden blurred vision could also be related to blood sugar levels.

A fruity or sweet odor on the breath can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe complication of untreated Type 1 diabetes. It occurs when the body starts breaking down fat for fuel, producing acids called ketones. If you suspect such a symptom, seek immediate medical attention, as DKA is a life-threatening condition.

If your child has been diagnosed with Type I diabetes, it is important to manage the condition via insulin therapies, constant blood sugar monitoring, and incorporating a balanced diet to ensure a healthy and active life. Insulin is essential for survival in Type 1 diabetes and is recommended by the doctor, varying based on type and dosage.

It is important to diagnose the early signs of Type I diabetes in kids to prevent the risks of life-threatening complications. If you suspect any such symptoms in your child, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.