How to Diagnose Type 1 Diabetes in a Child

Every time your child consumes food or drink, his or her body works to convert starches and sugar (glucose) into fuel to provide the body with energy to function properly. In order for this to take place, there must be a sufficient amount of insulin present. However, in a child suffering from type 1 diabetes, the pancreas cannot manufacture enough of this hormone. While it can be difficult for a child to live with type 1 diabetes, early diagnosis is important, and learning about the signs and symptoms can be critical.

Things You'll Need

• Checklist for your child's school, if applicable

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Instructions

Learn How to Diagnose Type 1 Diabetes in a Child

• 1

  Be aware that type 1 diabetes in a child usually makes an appearance during puberty (8 to 10 years of age for girls and 12 to 14 years for boys).

• 2

  Watch for warning signs. Symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst and/or hunger, frequent trips to the bathroom, tiredness, sudden weight loss and breath that smells sweet or fruit-like. If one or more of these signs are present, then you should have your child tested for diabetes.

• 3

  Expect your child to undergo various tests to diagnose diabetes. These tests include blood glucose measurements and a urinalysis.

• 4

  Know that your child will also be given a hemoglobin test (often referred to as an HbA1c or A1c). This test gives an indication of the average blood sugar level over a period of months. A desirable range is less than 7 percent, and a higher average on a consistent basis could indicate a greater risk for developing diabetes-related complications, such as eye, kidney and heart problems.

• 5

  Follow up with annual tests on time. These include a repeat of the A1c each year, as well as an eye exam, a urine test to check protein levels and an examination of the skin and feet to check for nerve damage.