Diabetes is categorized as either type 1 or type 2. More than 90 percent of children with diabetes suffer from type 1 where the immune system attacks the pancreas, causing it to not produce insulin, according to NetDoctor. Type 2 diabetes is rare among children, where the pancreas produces insulin, but the body doesn't use it properly. Both types of diabetes result in restricting sugar from entering cells properly which leads to constant high blood sugar. Talk to the child's pediatrician for the best treatment.
Type 1 Treatments--Insulin and Diet
Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin injections and lifestyle changes, according to KidsHelath.org. Because the body isn't producing insulin, the child will have to take injections on a daily basis to ensure blood sugar levels don't get too high, leading to greater complications. A child with type 1 diabetes should eat a well-balanced diet that restricts the amount of carbohydrates and sugars.
Type 1 Treatments--Monitoring
Monitoring blood sugar levels is essential to treating type 1 diabetes in children. Blood sugar levels are monitored using blood sticks and a glucose reader to track changes in blood sugar. Most children need to check their sugar levels at least three times a day, according to the MayoClinic.com. Continuous glucose monitoring, or CGM, may be used for children with extreme cases of diabetes. CGM uses a stick that's implanted directly under the skin that checks sugar levels every five minutes.
Type 2 Treatments
Type 2 diabetes treatments for children focus more on lifestyle and diet, according to KidsHealth.org. Type 2 diabetes in children is commonly associated with high blood pressure, obesity and abnormal blood fat levels. These conditions need to be treated alongside the diabetes to promote healthy growth and development. The main goal of type 2 diabetes treatment in children is to lower the child's resistance to insulin absorption by promoting a healthy diet and exercise. By losing weight and increasing physical activity, children with type 2 diabetes can experience significant improvement in their condition. Monitoring blood sugar levels is also an essential role in type 2 treatment, but is more predictable based on the child's diet.
