Diabetes is a disease in which the pancreas does not produce adequate insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels in the body. Children of any age may develop type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes, which causes the body to produce little to no insulin. The Juvenile Diabetes Association notes that over 15,000 children are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes each year.
Symptoms of diabetes in small children may mimic other illnesses, such as the flu, and may be difficult to recognize. Parents of children who exhibit symptoms of diabetes should seek urgent medical treatment.
Thirst
A small child with untreated diabetes may experience increased thirst and frequently ask for drinks. Blood sugar levels rise when there isn't enough insulin in the blood. The body responds by attempting to dilute the amount of sugar in the blood by drawing fluid out of body tissues. The brain signals for more fluid, prompting the child to be incessantly thirsty. Urine output also increases during untreated diabetes, which further signals the body to replace fluids.
Frequent Urination
KidsHealth.org notes that a child with untreated diabetes needs to urinate more often than usual. Small children may have more wet diapers than normal or experience trouble making it to the toilet in time to urinate. Children who are toilet trained may begin wetting the bed. Sudden changes in a child's urinary habits, especially if combined with increased thirst, indicate the need for prompt medical attention.
Weight Loss
Insulin helps convert blood sugar into fuel for the brain and body. During untreated diabetes, blood sugar is not properly metabolized into useable energy. In turn, the body begins to break down fat and muscle tissue in attempt to gain energy stores. Children with diabetes may have normal appetites but experience trouble gaining weight. Some may begin to experience weight loss. Fatigue and loss of interest in play may also materialize due to lack of proper energy conversion.
Additional Symptoms
Untreated diabetes can cause additional symptoms in small children as well as older children. Pre-pubescent girls may experience vaginal yeast infections as a result of sugar imbalance in the body. Some children may develop visual changes and may signal visual trouble by rubbing the eyes frequently or holding toys closer to the face during play. MayoClinic.com advises that some children become moody or irritable in response to untreated diabetes.
