Diabetes

Diabetes is the condition where the blood sugar level is higher than normal. There are two main forms of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes - Also known as insulin-dependent diabetes. This is most common in young people.

Type 2 diabetes - Also known as non insulin-dependent diabetes. This is more common in older people and generally tends to affect the elderly and overweight.


Symptoms

The most common symptoms of diabetes include:

- An increase in urination.
- An increase in the amounts drunk.
- Fatigue.
- Weight loss
- Skin infections
- Itchiness around the genitals

With type 1 diabetes you will notice these symptoms within days (possibly weeks). However in type 2 diabetes the symptoms are not quite so obvious.


What to Do

If you suspect your child has diabetes make an appointment with your doctor at the earliest convenience. Your doctor will test your child for diabetes with a simple blood test to check glucose blood levels. There are a number of treatments available that include both insulin injections and oral medication.