If you think diabetes is a disease that affects old people, then you are wrong. Even kids and pregnant women are also prone to having diabetes.
There are generally two types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which allows the body to use energy from food. Type 1 diabetes is caused by problem with the body’s immune system. It mistakes beta cells for invaders and attacks them. Meanwhile, when the beta cells produce insulin but does not receive any response or does not meet the needs of the body, then this is referred to as type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes in children include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, irritability and blurred vision. These symptoms do not always manifest. So as soon as you notice any of these signs, visit your doctor right away. Detecting these signs early on can help prevent further diabetes complications.
There is no definite cause for diabetes but genetics is one factor you can consider. If you have family members or relatives who have diabetes, it is likely possible that you may also get them. But remember that this is not always the case. Other factors are also being considered to be the cause of diabetes. Children with diabetes are treated with an insulin treatment.
Pregnancy Diabetes
Diabetes can be a serious disease especially if not taken care of. If diabetes poses several health risks to a normal person, what more to a pregnant one?
Non-diabetic women who have high blood sugar levels during her pregnancy is said to have gestational diabetes. Some pregnant women experience insulin resistance, making it hard for her body to use the insulin. When this happens, glucose builds up in the blood to high levels. This is referred to as hyperglycemia.
Gestational diabetes can affect the baby inside the womb. Your pancreas works overtime to produce insulin, but it does not lower your blood sugar levels. Insulin does not cross the placenta, but glucose and other nutrients do. This is bad since extra blood glucose passes through the placenta which will result in high blood glucose levels for the baby. The baby will then create extra insulin to get rid of the blood glucose and all this energy used by the baby is stored as fat.
When this happens, your baby can become a “fat” baby or what is also known as macrosomia. Macrosomia is defined as babies with health problems of their own, usually a damage to their shoulders during birth. They may also have very low blood glucose levels at birth and is at more risk for breathing problems.
Gestational diabetes is treated by monitoring the blood sugar level of the mother. At least four to five times a day is appropriate to make sure you keep your blood sugar at its healthy state. Mothers should also follow a healthy and balanced diet to prevent gaining excess weight. Engaging in physical activity is also beneficial to lower your blood sugar levels. Medications may also be administered.