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Youth Program Central* Search for Diabetes Programs
DIABETES THE BASICS OF DIABETES Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body stops producing sufficient amounts of insulin. Diabetes mellitus also occurs when the body doesn't use the insulin it does produce in a proper manner. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. This hormone acts as a key to the locked door of cells, allowing glucose to enter. In a non-diabetic state, when digestion occurs, sugar released from the foods one has eaten is absorbed into the bloodstream. Insulin allows that sugar (or glucose) to move from the bloodstream, into the cell, where the glucose is converted into energy. (1) When a person has diabetes, it's difficult for glucose to enter cells appropriately due to low levels of insulin or the body's inability to utilize available insulin the way it should. The result is high levels of glucose in the blood stream, also known as a high blood sugar level. TYPES OF DIABETES Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), also known as Type I diabetes, or juvenile diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes seen among children and teenagers. Type I diabetics require daily injections of insulin in order to maintain control of blood sugar levels. Exercise and diet are other important elements of maintaining appropriate blood glucose levels. Noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), also known as Type II diabetes or adult-onset diabetes, is mostly seen in adults older than forty-five years of age and in people who are overweight. Unfortunately, doctors are seeing increasing cases of Type II diabetes in children and teenagers. Type II diabetics can obtain blood sugar level control through diet, exercise, and oral medications. Oral medications work by helping the body use insulin more effectively or by increasing the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin. (2) COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES Diabetes can lead to serious problems affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, gums, and teeth. Research has shown that good blood sugar level control among diabetics will prevent or delay many diabetes-related complications. (1) On the downside, poorly controlled blood sugar levels can lead to immediate problems such as vomiting, breathing difficulty, and even coma. Poor glucose control can also accelerate the above mentioned complications occurring related to diabetes. (2) SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES Possible warning signs include: extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, extreme hunger, fatigue, and new onset of bed-wetting. (1) CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH DIABETES Frequent blood sugar checks, changes in diet, and taking medication are possible sources of concern for youth with diabetes. Children and adolescents may feel "different" from their friends and may feel frustrated and scared. Playing sports, sleeping over at a friend's house, or going to a party all require special planning for diabetic youth. These emotions and conditions are all normal. Studies show that youth who have supportive friends and family will deal best with their diabetes. Children and teenaged diabetics may benefit from knowing there are thousands of youth out there who also have diabetes. Interaction with other diabetic peers may prove therapeutic and educational. (2) Youth Program Central offers a comprehensive listing of available youth camps designed for children and teens with diabetes. Check it out, you may find just what you and your child have been looking for. REFERENCES 1. The Nemours Foundation. "KidsHealth. Insulin-Dependent Diabetes." July 2001. http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/endocrine/diabetes.html (11 Nov. 2003). 2. The Nemours Foundation. "TeensHealth. Dealing With Diabetes." Dec. 2000. http://teenshealth.org/teen/diseases_conditions/ (11 Nov. 2003).
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