Diabetes that sets in during childhood is typically type 1 diabetes, formerly known as juvenile diabetes states the Mayo Clinic. This form of diabetes is a chronic condition resulting from the pancreas producing little or no insulin. Insulin is needed to convert sugar to energy by the cells of the body. When the child's body resists the effects of insulin or fails to produce enough insulin the sugar builds up in the body causing various symptoms.
Excessive Thirst
When diabetes sets in a child may request a drink more frequently. The Mayo Clinic points out that the excess sugar that builds up in the bloodstream pulls fluid from the bod tissues. This results in a child being very thirsty, while consuming large quantities of liquids to combat this symptom will contribute to the child urinating more often.
Excessive Hunger
The body's inability to convert sugar to energy leaves the tissues of the body, such as the muscles and organs, deprived. The result is an increase in hunger that is often intense. MayoClinic.com explains that a child can feel hungry even after eating. When untreated, diabetes leaves the body tissues depleted of energy making it difficult for them to function in their usual manner. For example, the muscle tissues and fat stores may begin to shrink without energy. The result of this is often weight loss despite the child's excessive hunger. Children may also experience vision disturbances, such as blurring, from the eye lenses inability to function properly without adequate fluids.
Fatigue
In addition to the body tissues being fatigued from a lack of energy, the child may develop tiredness or drowsiness suggests FamilyDoctor.org. When the body goes without energy the child will feel the effects when exerting even minimal effort. Walking or playing can be tiring. Children with type 1 diabetes may also be more irritable. Caregivers can recognize this when the child is more irritable or seems disinterested in her regular activities, like playing.
Skin Issues
Excessive sugar in the body can make the surface of the skin more sugary as well. The result can be sores that heal more slowly, dry skin or itchy skin suggests MedlinePlus. Fluid circulation problems from the high level of sugar can cause a child to have tingling sensations in the feet or even numbness.
