Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is a serious lifelong condition where a child or young person’s body can’t make a hormone called insulin, causing their blood glucose (sugar) level to become too high. We all need insulin to live. It does an essential job. It allows the glucose in our blood to enter our cells and fuel our bodies. We are not sure what causes type 1 diabetes to develop, but it is not linked with diet or lifestyle choices. If type 1 is left undiagnosed, it can make your child or young person really unwell, really quickly.
Symptoms: Children and young people with Type 2 Diabetes may:
- Toileting – Children might have heavier nappies, and children who are usually dry at night might start wetting the bed.
- Thirst – They may ask for a drink more often and/or drink more and finish drinks quickly
- Tiredness – Children might start napping more regularly or for longer and children may have trouble staying awake in school
- Weight loss – Children may feel or look thinner when you’re getting them dressed, or their clothes may feel looser.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes means that a child or young person’s body still breaks down carbohydrates and turns it into glucose. As a result, the pancreas releases insulin. However, this insulin can’t work properly, and the body’s blood sugar levels keep rising, causing more insulin to be released. For some people with type 2 diabetes, this can eventually wear the pancreas out, meaning the body makes less and less insulin. This can cause higher blood sugar levels and significantly increase the risk of hyperglycaemia.
Symptoms: Children and young people with Type 2 Diabetes may:
- Go to the toilet more often, especially at night
- Feel more tired, because their body can’t get enough glucose in to their cells for energy
- Lose weight without trying
- Experience genital itching or thrush
- Take longer to heal from cuts and wounds
- Experience blurred vision
- Often feel very thirsty
What is diabetes? | Getting to know the basics | Diabetes UK