Type 1 Diabetes in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Type 1 diabetes is a disease that affects how your child's body makes insulin and uses glucose (sugar). Normally, when the blood sugar level increases, the pancreas makes more insulin. Insulin helps move sugar out of the blood so it can be used for energy. Type 1 diabetes develops because the immune system destroys cells in the pancreas that make insulin. The pancreas cannot make enough insulin, so the blood sugar level continues to rise. Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be managed.
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WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.
An IV
is a small tube placed in your child's vein that is used to give him or her medicine or liquids.
Insulin
may be given to decrease the amount of sugar in your child's blood.
Tests:
- Blood glucose tests may be checked 3 times a day or more. This is usually done before meals and at bedtime.
- A urine sample may show the amount of ketones and sugar in your child's urine. This test helps show how well his or her blood sugar level is being controlled and if he or she needs more tests.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Diabetes education:
Diabetes care team providers will teach you and your child how to manage your child's diabetes. They may also visit you at home to teach you more about diabetes, or you may attend classes. Your child's team will teach you and your child what to do if your child's blood sugar level goes too high or too low. They will also help plan sick day management. You will be taught how to dispose of used needles and syringes.
RISKS:
Uncontrolled diabetes can damage your child's nerves and arteries. Long-term high blood sugar levels can damage his or her eyes and kidneys. Your child may develop thyroid disease. Diabetes is life-threatening if it is not controlled. Help your child control his or her blood sugar levels to lower the risk for health problems.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Type 1 Diabetes
- Diabetes Medications and Alcohol Interactions
- OneTouch Blood Glucose Meters
- Top 10 Diabetes Treatments You May Have Missed
Treatment options
Care guides
- Diabetes and your Skin
- Diabetic Hyperglycemia
- How to Draw Up Insulin
- Type 1 Diabetes in Adults: New Diagnosis
- Type 1 Diabetes in Children
Symptoms and treatments
Medicine.com guides (external)
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
