Diabetes (Types 1 and 2)

Source of Information:

• Type 1: webmd.com


• Type 2: webmd.com

What Is It?

Type 1: A lifelong (chronic) disease that develops when the pancreas stops producing enough insulin.

Type 2: A lifelong (chronic) disease that develops when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin or the body is unable to use it.

What Causes It?

Type 1: Some people inherit the disease. May not develop the disease until exposed to certain viral infections.

Type 2: Unknown, but experts believe the following factors might contribute:

• Being overweight


• Family history of diabetes


• Lack of exercise

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Type 1: Symptoms include the following:

• Increased thirst


• Increased urination


• Weight loss


• Fatigue


• Increased appetite

If the blood sugar rises very high, can develop diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which can cause the following:

• Difficulty breathing


• Brain swelling (cerebral edema)


• Coma


• Death

Type 2: Uncontrolled diabetes over time can damage the following body parts:

• Blood vessels


• Eyes


• Heart


• Kidneys


• Nerves

Is it Hereditary?

Type 1: Yes, although the presence of a viral infection can trigger the disease.

Type 2: Sometimes. Family history is linked to the disease.

Diagnosable at Birth or Latent?

Type 1: Latent. It can develop at any age, but it usually develops in children and young adults.

Type 2: Latent. Most children do not have symptoms when diagnosed.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

Type 1: In the past, type 1 diabetes was called juvenile diabetes and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM).

Type 2: Can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular physical activity.

What’s the Bottom Line?

A child can live a long and healthy life with diabetes as long as his sugar levels are kept as close to normal as possible. Parents must take responsibility for ensuring the right combination of food, physical activity, and insulin for the child.

See the following topics in the Parenting Special Kids blog for more information: