What is Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes (sometimes called non-insulin-dependent or adult-onset diabetes) happens when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Often preventable, it can result from excess body weight and physical inactivity, and sometimes, a genetic predisposition.Recently, type 2 diabetes has increasingly been reported in children and adolescents, so much so that in some parts of the world type 2 diabetes has become the main type of diabetes in children. The global rise of childhood obesity and physical inactivity is widely believed to play a crucial role.
Healthy eating and lifestyle habits are a strong defense against the disease.
The single greatest risk factor for type 2 diabetes in children is excess weight. In the U.S., nearly one out of every five children is considered to be overweight. Once a child is overweight, chances are more than doubled that the child will develop diabetes. One or more of these factors may contribute to excess weight or obesity:
- Unhealthy eating patterns
- Lack of physical activity
- An inherited tendency
- Rarely, a hormone problem or other medical condition
In addition, as with adults, the risk of type 2 diabetes in children appears to be associated with excess abdominal weight. This obesity pattern increases the chance of insulin resistance and the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes in Children
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes in children develop slowly. Initially, there may be no symptoms. Eventually, you may notice one or more of these symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased hunger or thirst, even after eating
- Dry mouth
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Heavy breathing
- Slow healing of sores or cuts
- Itchy skin
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
It is time to visit your child's doctor if you notice any of these symptoms of diabetes in your child.
Consequences of Type 2 Diabetes in Children
With type 2 diabetes in children, symptoms may be minor at first. However, serious health problems may be developing. These are complications associated with type 2 diabetes in children or adults:
- Blindness
- Kidney failure
- Heart disease
- Blood circulation and nerve damage
- Early death from complications
Special Concerns With Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Children -- especially teens -- may have a tough time making changes to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes. You can help by following some of these suggestions:
- Talk with your child honestly but supportively about health and weight. Encourage your child to speak up about his or her concerns.
- Do not separate out your child for special treatment. Your entire family can benefit from making changes in diet and activity.
- Make changes gradually. Just as it took time for diabetes to develop, it will take time to achieve better health.
- Increase activities your child enjoys, while at the same time reducing the amount of time your family spends watching TV or playing video games.
- If your child refuses to follow his or her plan, try to find out why. Teens, for example, are dealing with hormone changes, demands on their time, peer pressure, and other factors that seem more important to them than taking care of diabetes.
- Set small, step-wise goals. Plan special rewards for your child when he or she meets each goal. Then move on to the next.
- Talk to a diabetes educator, doctor, dietitian, or other diabetes professional for more ideas on how to help your child become healthier.
By working together, you, your child and the diabetes health care team can be sure your child remains healthy for years to come.
No comments:
Post a Comment