Being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes can be a life-changing event. This is especially true for children. They can become scared and overwhelmed. As the parent there is suddenly so much information you need to know and keep track of. Their life may never be the same, but with their parent’s help, Diabetes can be manageable. There are a few things that parents should be focused on when dealing with a child with Diabetes.
Your child’s body can no longer produce insulin. This means the insulin has to be replaced several times throughout the day. Usually the insulin is injected. There are a few options when it comes to dosing insulin. Fixed dosages of fast-acting and intermediate are one option. With this type of dose your child will need a meal at the time the insulin peaks. These meals should be scheduled the same time everyday and have the same about of fats, proteins and carbs. Children who take long acting insulin will still need to take fast-acting insulin at meal time. The amount of fast-acting insulin will have to be calculated by how many carbohydrates are in the meal. Another option is for children who use insulin pumps. They will also need a fast-acting insulin dose before their meal which is also determined on the carbohydrates in the meal content.
Testing the child’s blood glucose is extremely important. It should be tested before meals and bedtime. Glucose levels vary by the child’s age. It is recommended to keep a log of the meals, blood glucose levels, and times. This can help manage your child’s Diabetes. You will be able to see the fluctuations and be able to control the glucose levels better.
Low blood sugar, which is also known as hypoglycemia, is very common in children with Type 1 Diabetes. Sometimes the child might not be able to tell that they are becoming hypoglycemic. Typical symptoms include weakness, shakiness, headache, dizziness, and irritability. If the child’s blood sugar is too low a way to raise the level is by having the child drink or eat a concentrated about of sugar, such as half a can of soda which can help raise their level to over 80 mg/dl. It is a great idea to plan ahead. Storing items that have sugar in your purse or in the glove compartment of your car will help incase this may happen while you are not at home.
Making sure the child is eating right is very important. A Doctor or dietitian can help make a plan on the foods that will help your child’s blood sugar not fluctuate, yet also be good for your child as they grow. There is also the option of finding good resources over the internet, but do not let it be the only source of information. Having your child’s Doctor help will be vital because they understand your child’s personal nutritional needs.
Children should still get exercise daily. These activities can lower blood sugar so checking the child’s glucose level before exercising is important. If their blood sugar is low, they should take a break and eat a snack with carbohydrates until their level is back at 80 mg/dl. Parents should inform gym teachers and coaches about their child having Diabetes and that there is a risk of them having a hypoglycemic reaction.
A child with Diabetes can still have a basically normal life. They will need the parent’s help to manage it. Being educated and having plans will make Diabetes a lot easier on everyone. Your child will be able to enjoy life just like before being diagnosed.