Living With Juvenile Diabetes
by Venus Enock
Juvenile diabetes is a disease that hinders childhood, and brutally changes the shape of adulthood. Even healthy, active kids with juvenile
diabetes must face challenges every day of their lives. When kids have juvenile diabetes, they can face greater difficulties as they grow into
adults. However, parents can take necessary steps today to help ensure good health in the future.
Causes and symptoms of juvenile diabetes are easily misunderstood and misinterpreted. These are the facts that every parent must be aware
of:
The Basics
First and foremost, its important to realize that your childs diabetes is not your fault, and you need to make sure that your child does not
feel that he or she has brought about the disease. Popular to contrary belief, Type I or "juvenile" diabetes is not caused by childhood obesity
or sugar overload. This is a genetic disease.
When kids have juvenile diabetes, the body creates an autoimmune response to pancreatic antigens, and these proteins will break down. The
pancreas is responsible for delivering the insulin that breaks down glucose and converting the glucose into energy. Approximately 1.4 million
people suffer from this form of diabetes in the United States alone.
Symptoms and Effects
Juvenile diabetes is presented with a long list of possible side effects. Foot ulcers, digestive problems, possible kidney failure,
difficulties with eyesight and even blindness can occur. Symptoms of juvenile diabetes include blurred vision, excessive thirst, frequent
urination, weight loss, extreme fatigue or lethargy and a numbing or tingling sensation in the feet and hands. If your child complains about one
or more of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your physician immediately.
Treatment
There is no way to prevent the cause of juvenile diabetes, but there are treatment methods available to help to control the disease and reduce
your childs discomfort. If your child is diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, your first step is to find a diabetes clinic in your area. Insist on a
doctors referral to see a physician specializing in juvenile diabetes. Your childs specialist will prescribe insulin and speak to you about diet
and exercise requirements. Youll learn how to monitor your childs glucose levels on a regular basis.
And youll need to be sure that your child is taking his or her medications properly, and eating the right foods. Youll also need to be sure
that your child stays healthy and active, because exercise is very important in staving off potential complications of juvenile diabetes.
As a parent, of course you want to protect your child from harm and suffering. Unfortunately, there are some things are just out of our
control. Juvenile diabetes is a genetic disease that cannot be prevented, but you can take some precautions.
If you are concerned that your little one may be suffering from this illness, take him or her to the doctor. If anyone in your family has a
history of juvenile diabetes, you must know the signs and symptoms.
Be prepared to take steps to help keep your child healthy. Smart food choices and plenty of exercise can help ensure that your child enjoys
the healthy, carefree lifestyle that every kid deserves.
Author Venus Enock contributes articles to numerous popular Internet magazines, on healthy eating and
healthy kid topics.
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