How to Diagnose Diabetes in Teens

Symptoms of diabetes in teenagers are the same as they are for other type 1 diabetics but often appear to be a normal part of puberty. Unrecognized and uncontrolled diabetes can result in extremely high blood glucose levels, a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA. DKA can lead to unconsciousness or coma. Diagnosing diabetes early improves care and reduces complications.

Instructions

Early Symptoms

• 1

  Observe drinking and bathroom habits. Extreme thirst and frequent urination are usually the first symptoms to appear.

• 2

  Examine eating and sleeping patterns. While teenagers are frequently hungry and tired, these conditions will be pronounced in uncontrolled diabetes.

• 3

  Check for unexplained weight loss, especially if the child is generally sedentary or not dieting. Stunted growth is another symptom of type 1 diabetes.

• 4

  Chart the healing times for cuts, sores and bruises. They take much longer to heal in diabetic patients. Pay special attention to wounds on the feet since they are more likely to become infected.

• 5

  Look for dry, flaky and itchy skin, particularly skin that requires repeated moisturizing.

• 6

  Be wary of mood swings. Changes in attitude caused by hormonal changes are common in teenagers but mood swings brought on by diabetes will often be severe and unprovoked. Commonly uncharacteristic emotions include anger, which can lead to violent outbursts.

Severe Symptoms

• 7

  Question numbness or tingling in the extremities. These are common signs of peripheral neuropathy.

• 8

  Take an eye test. High blood sugars can cause blurry vision in one or both eyes.

• 9

  Be aware of the signs of diabetic ketoacidosis, including loss of appetite, high temperatures, stomach pain and a fruity smell on the breath.