Symptoms of Diabetes in Children

The number of children diagnosed with diabetes has been increasing since the 1980s. The incidence of type 1 diabetes among children has risen by 3-5%, while type 2 has increased by 5-8%. This raises the question, "How can we tell if a child has diabetes?" In this article, we will explore the symptoms of diabetes in children, which often serve as warning signs.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Children

Diabetes symptoms in children are generally similar to those in adults, though they may manifest differently. Below are details on the main symptoms of each type of diabetes that can affect children:

• Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children usually appear suddenly and very rapidly over several days or weeks, and may include:

1. Frequent urination, bedwetting despite previous dryness, or waking up frequently at night to urinate.
2. Intense thirst; the child may drink a lot of water and other beverages.
3. General fatigue, drowsiness, and low energy.
4. Intense hunger despite weight loss.
5. Frequent infections, especially fungal infections, more than usual.
6. Blurred vision.
7. Nausea and vomiting.
8. Abdominal pain.
9. Irritability and mood changes.

These symptoms can sometimes resemble common illnesses such as the flu, and they may vary from one child to another. However, it is crucial to consult a doctor if any of these symptoms appear.

• Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

While type 1 diabetes is more common in children, they can also develop type 2 diabetes, especially those over ten years old, or other types like neonatal diabetes (before six months of age).

Type 2 diabetes symptoms in children are similar to those of type 1 but are usually less pronounced and develop more slowly over weeks or even months. In some cases, symptoms may not appear at all and the child is diagnosed during a routine checkup.

The primary symptoms of type 2 diabetes include significant weight loss and dark patches of skin, often around the neck, armpits, or groin.

• Neonatal Diabetes Symptoms

Newborns can develop diabetes, a condition known as neonatal diabetes, a rare form of diabetes that appears in the first six months of life due to the body’s inability to produce sufficient insulin. Symptoms in infants may include:

1. Soaking more diapers and needing frequent changes.
2. Increased appetite.
3. Dehydration.
4. Diaper rash caused by yeast or persistent rash that doesn’t improve with treatment.

Neonatal diabetes can be mistaken for type 1 diabetes, which typically appears in children older than six months, while neonatal diabetes occurs before six months of age.

• Severe Diabetes Symptoms That Require Urgent Care

Many children are not diagnosed with diabetes until they experience severe complications known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. When there is insufficient insulin, the body breaks down fats for fuel, leading to an accumulation of acids, called ketones, in the bloodstream. This condition typically causes symptoms to appear within 24 hours, including:

1. Nausea or vomiting.
2. Extreme thirst.
3. Frequent urination.
4. Abdominal pain.
5. Shortness of breath.
6. Fruity breath odor.
7. Severe fatigue and weakness.

How Is Diabetes Diagnosed in Children?

If any of the symptoms of diabetes appear in children, it is essential to take your child to a doctor. The doctor will inquire about the child’s symptoms, medical history, and family history. They will then conduct a physical exam and may order the following tests:

1. Fasting blood glucose test to measure blood sugar levels after an 8-hour fast.
2. Random blood glucose test to measure blood sugar at any time, especially if symptoms like increased thirst and urination are present.
3. Hemoglobin A1C test to measure the average blood sugar level over the past three months.
4. Oral glucose tolerance test, where the child fasts overnight, drinks a glucose solution in the morning, and their blood sugar is measured over the next two hours.

Blazma provides all the tests required for diagnosing diabetes in children, including Glucose - Fasting Test, Glucose - Random Test, Hemoglobin A1C (Glycated Hb,HbA1C) Test, and Diabetes Checkup Package that help assess the overall health and safety of diabetic patients.