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What is JUVENILE DIABETES?

By Dr. Vaishakhi Rustagi in Paediatric (Ped) Endocrinology , Endocrinology & Diabetes

Jun 07 , 2017 | 1 min read

Dr. Vaishakhi Rustagi says, if a child is suffering from this condition, he/she may not be able to produce their own insulin because their sugar levels remain high. These children need daily injections of insulin- which are available in an injectable form as other forms are unstable.

Generally known as Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Juvenile Diabetes is seen in Children between 5-15 years of age. Surprisingly, the incidence has increased in children younger than 5 years.

There are several differences between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, hence a Paediatric Endocrinologist or a Paediatric Diabetes Specialist having enough experience in Type 1 diabetes need to manage such children.

How can Juvenile Diabetes be managed?

  • Includes 2-4 injections of different types of insulin
  • Sugar monitoring by maintaining a daily sugar diary
  • Regular follow up with a Paediatric Diabetes Specialist

*Follow up is essential to pick up complications early to manage it appropriately*

How can this condition be improved?

Insulin pumps have now made the life of these children easier as it mimics the action of the pancreas. However, Oral antidiabetics do not benefit these patients, which is the initial mode of treatment in type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

Myths associated with Juvenile Diabetes

  • Delayed wound healing
  • Poor lifespan
  • Kidney Failure
  • Poor Scholastic Performance

If these patients are managed well with regular follow ups and tests advised by the Paediatric Diabetes Specialist, they can achieve a potential physical, mental and normal life span.