What to look for: Symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children

One of the early signs of type 1 diabetes in children is increased urination and thirst. When blood-sugar is high it triggers a reaction in the body that pulls fluid from tissues. This will leave your son or daughter constantly thirsty, resulting in a need for more bathroom breaks throughout the day. Below are some other warning signs that you should be aware of.

Fatigue
If your child is constantly tired it may be a sign that his or her body is having trouble turning sugar in the bloodstream into energy.

Changes in vision
High blood sugar levels can lead to blurred vision or other eyesight problems.

Fruity smelling breath
If your kid’s breath smells fruity, it could be a result of excess sugar in the blood.

Extreme hunger and unexplained weight loss
When your son or daughter’s muscles and organs aren’t receiving enough energy, it can trigger extreme hunger. And sudden weight loss—especially if he or she is eating more—should not be ignored.

Unusual behavior
If your child seems more moody or restless than normal—and it’s in conjunction with the symptoms above—it could be cause for concern.

Other symptoms of diabetes in children

Be on the lookout if your child is lethargic, shows heavy breathing, or experiences nausea and vomiting. When it goes untreated, type 1 diabetes can be life-threatening. If you’re concerned that your son or daughter is showing signs of childhood diabetes it’s important that you schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible.