Diabetes exists in two forms, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is the most likely diagnosis in childhood--it used to be called juvenile diabetes--but it may affect adults as well. This health condition occurs when a child's body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use insulin correctly, explains FamilyDoctor.org. Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes in childhood can lead to prompt medical treatment and management of this life-long condition.
Extreme Hunger
Extreme hunger is a primary symptom of diabetes. A child may feel hungry shortly after a meal, or desire food frequently. This is the result of the cells in the body being deprived of energy, which is provided by sugar when it is converted to energy using insulin. FamilyDoctor.org explains that insulin allows glucose, a form of sugar, to enter the cells of the body and be used as energy. Despite being hungry often, the child may lose weight for no apparent reason. This is also attributed to the cell abnormalities, since the muscle tissues and fat stores begin to shrink from prolonged energy deficiency.
Extreme Thirst
Thirst, like hunger, is the result of the cells being deficient in energy and fluids. MayoClinic.com explains that the fluid is pulled from the tissues because sugar levels are so high. Fluids are not normally expelled from the body at this speed, leaving a child with a seemingly insatiable thirst. The increased fluid intake results in frequent urination or an increase in quantity of expelled urine. Urine can take on a fruity odor when sugar levels in the body are extremely high. This is called diabetic ketoacidosis, indicates MedlinePlus.
Fatigue
Overall, a child with diabetes will feel depleted of energy after even a short exertion. The child will likely feel drowsy or be fatigued easily and often. The excessive fatigue can be attributed to the organs and other bodily tissues having minimal energy due to low insulin levels. Children will also frequently be more irritable or moody from the fatigue due to diabetes.
Vision Blurring
A child's vision can blur from poor fluid circulation in the eyes as a response to the high levels of sugar circulating through the body.
Skin Infection
Frequent or persistent yeast infections in children is sometimes the first sign of diabetes, explains MayoClinic.com. Yeast infections can affect infants and children in the genital region and the diapered area. A minor skin wound can lead to a yeast infection that is difficult to treat.
Feet Tingling
Tingling in the feet or losing feeling in this area is a sign of diabetes, suggests MedlinePlus. This symptom may set in suddenly and disappear just as quickly. It is the result of excessive sugar making muscle and bodily tissues weak.
