Diabetes Strike Youngsters Too

Diabetes can be diagnosed at any age, owing to heredity, lifestyle and habits. But, usually type 1 diabetes is known to be more frequent in children and adults. The cases of diabetes are on a rise every day and all of us should be informed about how to tackle type 1 diabetes to track symptoms and fight the disease. Type I diabetes. commonly known as juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition where no insulin or very little insulin is produced by the pancreas.

Insulin is a hormone that is needed to allow glucose to enter cells to produce energy. A more common form of diabetes is type 2 diabetes. This condition develops in an individual when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce required amounts of insulin, Various factors contribute to an individual being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, like exposure to certain viruses, genetics, lifestyle choices etc. Those with type 1 diabetes are usually not obese and initially show symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). These patients are dependent on exogenous insulin to counter low levels.

Autoimmunity plays a major role in the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes. An individual prone to type 1 diabetes through genetics may generate the production of antibodies against a viral protein triggering an autoimmune response against antigenically similar beta cell molecules. In most people. the individual’s immune system that normally fights harmful bacteria and viruses destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. An individual’s exposure to certain environmental factors such as viruses may also trigger the disease.

Signs And Symptoms

Increased thirst (polydipsia) Frequent urination (polyuria)
Extreme hunger (polyphagia)
Bedwetting in children (nocturnal enuresis)
Unintended weight loss
Irritability and other mood changes
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Vaginal yeast infection

Symptoms at the time of the first clinical presentation can usually be traced back several days to weeks. The destruction of beta-cells may have started months or even years, before the onset of clinical symptoms. Neuropathy affects up to 50 per cent type 1 diabetics but symptomatic neuropathy develops in the later stages, usually after years of chronic and prolonged hyperglycaemia. Peripheral neuropathy is seen as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet and is bilateral, symmetric and ascending.

Risk Factors

Family History – Any individual with a parent or sibling with type I diabetes has an increased risk of developing the condition.

Genetics – A ready indicator is the presence of certain genes, which increase the chances of developing type 1 diabetes.

Geography – The incidence of type 1 diabetes tends to increase as a person moves away from the equator. People living in Finland and Sardinia are at a higher risk of developing type 1 diabetes, about two to three times higher than those living ¡n the US and 400 times higher than people living in Venezuela.

Age – The onset of diabetes can appear in children aged between 4-7 years or 10-14 years.

Many other possible factors for type 1 diabetes have also been investigated, although none have been proven. Other possible nsk factors that may contribute to the disease include the following.

Exposure to certain viruses, such as the epstein-barr virus. coxsackie virus, mumps virus and cytomegalovirus.
Early exposure to cow’s milk.
Insufficient levels of vitamin D.
Drinking water contaminated with nitrates.
Early (before tour months) or late (after seven months) introduction of cereal and gluten.
A mother who had preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Infants afflicted with jaundice.

Those with type 1 diabetes are usually not obese and initially show symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). These patients are dependent on exogenous insulin to counter low levels

If you suspect that you or your child might have type I diabetes, get a medical check up immediately. A simple blood test can let your doctor know if you need further evaluation and treatment. Once the diagnosis for type 1 diabetes is done, a follow-up is mandatory until the blood sugar levels stabilize and a doctor determines the most effective type and doses of insulin. A doctor who specializes in hormonal disorders generally coordinates diabetes care.

Healthy eating and regular exercise play an important role in combating diabetes. Patients with diabetes also need foods rich in nutrients to meet the demands of their body. Therefore, plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains should be eaten. Limit animal products and sweets. Make physical activity a part of your routine as it helps improve glucose levels, regulates blood pressure, prevents weight gain and keeps the heart healthy.

Be aware that any physical activity can lower blood sugar levels and it is important that you talk to your doctor before beginning any new activity. Always, monitor changes in your blood sugar levels as you may need to adjust your diet plan and insulin dosage accordingly.