Diabetes is a rapidly growing, serious health problem
among youngster today. Above thirteen thousand
adolescents are diagnosed for type 1 diabetes, every
year in America. There has also been an increase in the
number of teenagers with type 2 diabetes, which was more
common among adults above forty and who were overweight.
Clinics are reporting that nearly half of the new
childhood diabetes cases are of type 2. Adolescents, who
are obese and had type 2 diabetes in the family history,
are at a greater risk of developing diabetes.
Diabetes is a disease where the human body is incapable
of producing or utilizing insulin. Insulin is a hormone
produced by the body in order to get energy by
converting starches, sugar and other items. Since the
insulin isn’t used properly in diabetic people, the
blood sugar level increases. This glucose buildup is
found in blood and is then passed onto the urine and
comes out of the body and the major source of body
energy is lost.
Diabetes is a serious chronic disease and should be
handled at proper time; otherwise it can create serious
problems. It can pose a risk and can damage parts of the
human body such as eyes, teeth, gums, blood vessels,
nerves, and kidneys. This is the reason why diabetes is
responsible in most of the cases of adult blindness,
kidney failure and lower limb amputations. And if left
untreated, it can cause stroke, heart disease and
eventually, death. These problems are not only faced by
adults, but also adolescents who get diabetes in their
childhood. The important factor in treatment of diabetes
is to keep the blood sugar level normal at all times.
There are basically two types of diabetes that will
affect an adolescent. It is type 1 diabetes and type 2
diabetes. Type 1 diabetes affects the immune system’s
function as the systems attacks the pancreas’ insulin
producing cells, also known as the beta cells. Because
of this, the pancreas loses the ability to manufacture
insulin. This is the reason why people with type 1
diabetes take insulin everyday. The symptoms are weight
loss, increase in urination & thirst, blurred vision,
tiredness and constant hunger. And if the adolescent
isn’t treated at the right time, he/she can slip in to
diabetic coma which can endanger his/her life. In type2
diabetes, the body is incapable of properly using the
insulin produced by the body and requires insulin from
an external source, too. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes
are similar to type 1 diabetes. The teenager feels sick,
tired, nauseated, and thirsty. The wounds will recover
very slowly; he/she will get infections frequently, will
develop blurred vision and will experience weight loss.
Parents play a vital role in determining the problem.
They should constantly observe their child for eating
disorders or signs of depression. Although cigarette,
drugs and alcohol should be avoided by all adolescents
and children, it is even more important that youngster
with diabetes should stay away from these things as they
can worsen the situation. A person with diabetes, who
switches to smoking, is at risk of developing
cardiovascular diseases and circulatory problems.
Consumption of alcohol can cause hypoglycemia or low
blood sugar. It is the duty of the parents to make their
child aware of the possible risk they would face if they
start to smoke, drink alcohol or take drugs.
Children and adolescents, who have diabetes, face many
challenges while trying to lead a normal life. They have
to think twice before doing simple things as going to a
party, playing sports and even when staying over with
friends. This is because they require to intake oral
medication or insulin. Their blood sugar level must be
checked many times through out the day. Also, at
gatherings, they have to avoid many food items. Because
of this they will feel different from the crowd and can
feel left out. Not only does diabetes pose behavioral
challenges, but also emotional challenges.
Along with doctor consultation, a psychologist must also
be consulted who can deal with the emotional challenges
of the adolescent. The family should also play an active
role in making the youngster feel better. The family
should work in collaboration with physician, dietitian
and diabetes educators. Teachers, counselors, school
nurses, day care providers, and other community members
can provide extended support and guidance. They can
provide help with transportation, mental health
counseling, health education, social services and
financial services.
