Adolescent Diabetes:
Diabetes has become a pressing health concern among young people today. In the United States alone, over 13,000 teenagers are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes each year, with an increase in the number of teenagers diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which was once more prevalent among overweight adults over forty. Reports indicate that almost half of new childhood diabetes cases are now type 2. Adolescents who are obese or have a family history of type 2 diabetes are at greater risk.
Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body is unable to produce or use insulin effectively, a hormone responsible for converting sugar and starches into energy. In individuals with diabetes, insulin is not used properly, leading to high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. This glucose buildup can cause damage to the eyes, teeth, gums, blood vessels, nerves, and kidneys. If left untreated, it can lead to stroke, heart disease, and even death.
There are two types of diabetes that can affect adolescents: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreas' insulin-producing cells, causing the pancreas to lose its ability to manufacture insulin. Symptoms include weight loss, increased urination and thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, and constant hunger. Without proper treatment, an adolescent with type 1 diabetes may slip into a diabetic coma. In contrast, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use insulin produced by the body and may require external insulin. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes are similar to type 1 diabetes and may include fatigue, nausea, thirst, slow wound healing, blurred vision, and weight loss.
Parents play a crucial role in monitoring their child for signs of depression or eating disorders. Adolescents with diabetes must avoid cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol as these substances can exacerbate their condition. Smoking can lead to cardiovascular and circulatory issues, while alcohol consumption can cause hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Parents should make their children aware of the risks involved with substance use.
Adolescents with diabetes face challenges in leading a normal life. They must carefully monitor their blood sugar levels, which may require taking oral medication or insulin. At social gatherings, they may need to avoid certain foods, causing them to feel different from their peers. Emotional challenges may arise, and it is important to seek psychological support in addition to medical treatment. Families should work with healthcare professionals, diabetes educators, and dietitians to support the adolescent's care. The community can provide additional support through counseling, education, social services, and financial services.
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