Diabetes is a life-long illness that can affect anyone. If you are concerned about childhood diabetes in Lake Charles, LA, choose an experienced pediatrician you can trust. Dr. Rachel Chatters at Chatters Pediatrics has over 20 years of experience specializing in pediatric and adolescent medicine.
Defining Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic illness that affects how our body turns food and drink into energy.
There are two types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is an illness you are born with.
- Type 2 diabetes may occur due to poor diet and lifestyle choices.
Usually, when we consume food, our body turns it into glucose which signals the pancreas to release a hormone called insulin. Insulin converts glucose into energy for our bodies.
With diabetes, your body cannot produce enough insulin, or your cells stop responding to the insulin, which can have serious and life-threatening consequences.
Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Diabetes
Suppose you are concerned that your child may have diabetes. In that case, it is always better to consult a healthcare professional like Dr. Chatters at Chatters Pediatrics, serving Lake Charles, LA, providing diabetes care and other comprehensive pediatric services. Look out for some of the following symptoms.
Increased Thirst and Urination
Your child may suddenly need to consume more drinks or seem unable to quench their thirst. In addition, they may need to go to the toilet more often than normal and even get up at night to go to the bathroom. In babies, you will notice heavier wet nappies.
Tiredness
Your child may display excessive tiredness and want to rest a lot. Most healthy children exude a lot of energy and are constantly on the move. Sudden onset fatigue should be monitored.
Weight Loss
Your child may seem to be losing weight but eating far more than usual. A sweeter-smelling breath may also accompany this.
All these symptoms will be outside what would be considered the normal range and may also be accompanied by an increase in infections and illness, unusual behavior, and blurry vision. The symptoms for both diabetes types are similar, although Type 1 diabetes may have a more rapid onset.
Treating Diabetes
Diabetes is not currently curable, but it can be managed successfully. Type 1 diabetes patients must have insulin daily to survive. Type 2 diabetes patients may need insulin, but they also benefit from a healthy lifestyle which should be supported and managed by parents in the case of a child.
Contact Us
Diabetes is a life-threatening condition. If you are concerned about childhood diabetes in Lake Charles, LA, please call Dr. Chatters at Chatters Pediatric at 337-475-9009 today for a consultation.