Q&A: Your Diabetes Questions Answered

Do you have a question about your child’s health that you would like to see answered here? E-mail us at mychildshealth@thechildrens
hospital.org.

Each day, 40 children in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, you can ensure your child receives the treatment needed to continue enjoying a healthy, active life.

Phil Zeitler, MD, PhD, endocrinologist at The Children’s Hospital and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, discusses how diabetes affects children. 

Parenting Question: What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Dr. Zeitler: In Type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system destroys the cells that release insulin, eventually eliminating insulin production from the body. Without insulin, cells cannot absorb sugar, which they need to produce energy.

Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age and is caused by inactivity and poor diet in children who are overweight or obese. In people with Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin or may not produce enough insulin to create normal glucose levels. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 often can be prevented.

Parenting Question: My five-year-old son is always thirsty and seems to have to use the restroom more than my other children. Could these be signs of diabetes?

Dr. Zeitler: Increased urination and thirst could be signs of Type 1 diabetes. Some of the most common signs include extreme hunger yet loss of weight, extreme weakness, fatigue and abdominal pain. Type 2 diabetes symptoms can be similar to those of Type 1 diabetes but generally accompany obesity and inactivity.

Parenting Question: If a child is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, will it prohibit him from having a “normal” childhood? 

Dr. Zeitler: No, children with either diabetes type can live normal lives through proper management and understanding of the condition.

If you have a question about your child’s health that you would like answered, e-mail us at mychildshealth@thechildrenshospital.org.