When I was a child, my mother had an uncanny knack for knowing when I was sick. She’d look at me, squint her eyes and say, “You’re not well, are you?” I guess it’s what folks call a mother’s instinct.
So why am I telling you this?
Well, as a parent, that same instinct may be telling you that something is off with your child. Perhaps it’s the constant thirst or the unusual lethargy that’s raising red flags.
Here’s the deal.
Type 2 diabetes – a condition often associated with adults – is increasingly being identified in children. Your gut feeling might be more than just paranoia. There are telltale signs to look for and they might not be as obvious as you’d think.
So if you’ve been asking yourself “Could my child have type 2 diabetes?” take a breath. Have a read through these 7 signs and consider if they match up with what you’ve been noticing.
Knowledge is power. The sooner you can identify these signs, the sooner you can take action.
So let’s get started, shall we?
1. Unquenchable thirst
Let’s kick things off with a classic sign.
Does your child seem to be drinking water like a fish? I’m talking about an insatiable thirst that seems to never be quenched, no matter how much they drink.
Here’s the science behind it.
When blood sugar levels are high – as they are in diabetes – the kidneys try to flush out the excess sugar through urine. This process requires more water, leading to dehydration and, you guessed it, a constant thirst.
2. Frequent bathroom breaks
Remember when I mentioned the kidneys flushing out excess sugar? Well, that process leads not only to thirst but also to frequent urination.
Think back to a time when you’ve had one too many glasses of water. You probably found yourself taking more trips to the bathroom than you’d have liked, right?
Well, imagine that happening to your child, but on a regular basis.
When my niece was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, this was one of the signs that stood out. She was constantly excusing herself during family gatherings, movie nights – you name it.
So if your child’s been making frequent dashes to the restroom, it might be more than just a small bladder at play.
3. A sudden drop in energy levels
Picture this.
Your child, usually bouncing off the walls with energy, now slumped on the couch. They’re no longer interested in games or activities they once loved. Their usual spark seems to have dimmed.
This isn’t just a case of your child growing up and interests changing. It’s not about them becoming a moody teenager overnight either.
When glucose (the body’s main source of energy) can’t get into the cells due to lack of insulin, it can lead to fatigue. And when I say fatigue, I’m talking about a level of tiredness that’s hard to shake off, even after plenty of sleep.
It’s heartbreaking to see your little dynamo lose their zest for life. But recognising this could be a step towards getting them the help they need.
4. Unexplained weight loss
Let’s consider another symptom that may be surprising.
Have you noticed your child losing weight even though their eating habits haven’t changed, or perhaps they’re even eating more than usual? Yet, their clothes are fitting more loosely, and their face appears a bit thinner.
This could be due to their body burning fat and muscle for energy instead of using sugar effectively, resulting in unexplained weight loss.
It’s a puzzling situation. On one hand, it’s good they’re not gaining unhealthy weight, but on the other, the unexplained weight loss raises concerns that something might be off.
5. Dark patches on skin
This one might seem a little out of left field, but hear me out.
Have you noticed any dark patches on your child’s skin? Specifically, in areas like the neck, armpits, or groin? This could be a condition called acanthosis nigricans – quite a mouthful, I know.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. These dark patches are often associated with insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, making this skin condition a potential red flag.
As you’re tucking your little one into bed tonight, take an extra moment to check their skin. It might be nothing, but it’s worth being thorough.
6. Slow-healing wounds
No one likes seeing their child get hurt, even if it’s just a small scrape from a tumble in the park.
High levels of sugar in the blood can affect the body’s healing processes and immune system. This means wounds can take longer to heal, and infections can be more common.
7. Blurry vision
High blood sugar levels can cause the lens in the eye to swell, affecting your child’s ability to see. While this might not seem like a big deal initially, over time it can lead to serious vision problems.
Ensuring your child has healthy vision is crucial. Don’t overlook these complaints – they could be a sign of something much bigger. Get their eyes checked and consult with their doctor. This one act could make all the difference in protecting their health and future.
Wrapping it up
If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these signs, it may be time to take action.
But let me reassure you – you’re not alone.
Facing the possibility of a diabetes diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming. It’s okay to feel scared and unsure. These emotions are a testament to the love you have for your child.
Begin by acknowledging these signs and what they might mean. Schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor for a professional opinion. Timely intervention is crucial in managing diabetes effectively.
And don’t forget to extend kindness and patience to yourself during this process. You’re doing the best you can with the information you have. There’s no perfect way to navigate these waters, but you’re taking steps in the right direction.
The journey ahead might be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to advocate for your child’s health and well-being. Trust yourself, seek support when needed, and remember – every step forward counts.
You’ve got this, and we’re here with you every step of the way.
