More than 90 percent of cases of diabetes in children are Type 1 diabetes mellitus, or insulin dependent diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, no insulin is being produced by the pancreas. The cause of Type 1 diabetes is often an autoimmune response triggered by a virus, stress or other factors. Children with a family history of Type 1 disease are more likely to develop it. Type 1 diabetes occurs in 1 of 400 to 600 children, the American Diabetic Association states. Diabetes in children is recognized by a number of symptoms.
Polyuria and Polydipsia
Polyuria, which means an increase in urine output, is caused by the increased amount of glucose passing through the kidneys. The lack of insulin production means that glucose in the blood can't be taken up into the cells that need it. The kidneys try to rid the body of the excess glucose by increasing the frequency of urination and the amount of urine passed. One sign of diabetes can be sudden bed wetting in a child who had previously been dry. The increase in urination can lead to dehydration; children with diabetes are often very thirsty, even though they're drinking large amounts of fluid.
Weight Loss
Weight loss is a common sign of Type 1 diabetes. Weight loss occurs because glucose isn't able to be used by cells for energy, so the body breaks down fat stores for energy. Weight loss occurs in spite of increased hunger and increased food intake.
Diabetes Ketoacidosis
Unrecognized diabetes can lead to ketoacidosis, a serious complication. Ketones from the breakdown of fat stores build up in the blood; nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and a fruity smell to the breath follow. The child may breathe deep and fast; his skin may be dry and flushed. The child can lose consciousness, according to KidsHealth, a website run by the Nemours Foundation.
Other Changes
Children with Type 1 diabetes are often tired and lethargic from the lack of sugar to be used for energy. They may be irritable and have mood and behavior changes. The first sign of Type 1 diabetes in girls may be a vaginal yeast infection. Babies may have a severe diaper rash caused by yeast, the Mayo clinic states.
