What are the symptoms of Juvenile Diabetes

The symptoms of juvenile diabetes , aka Type-1 Diabetes, are similar to the symptoms of the other two forms of diabetes, so to start off let’s look at what is particular to Juvenile Diabetes. We will then learn about what it does to the body and who is likely to develop this version of diabetes.  We will then discuss the symptoms.

What is JD?

Symptoms of juvenile diabetesWhen we consume sugars in food, the body works to use the sugar to create energy and balance within. The beta cells located in the liver work to convert the sugars to energy via insulin. The role of the insulin hormone is to carry certain nutrients into the cells of the body’s tissues.

Patients who suffer from Juvenile Diabetes (JD) incur damage to the immune system that actually destroys the insulin producing cells called beta cells. Without those cells available to do their jobs the body suffers from insufficiency of insulin hormones to carry out their duties, thus the immune system is compromised.  When the sugar is not moved to the cells they remain in the blood system. As a result the cells not getting insulin are essentially starved which leads to dehydration, weight loss, and in in extreme cases Diabetic Ketadosis (DKA). DKA means that the body breaks down fat cells, and ketones increase in the blood. Although rare, this condition can lead to death.

When the body’s cellular system is in such a state of imbalance the immune system is essentially confused and ends up attacking the healthy cells of the body, thus weakening the entire system. As a result individuals with diabetes tend to deal with illnesses caused by viruses and bacteria more frequently than non-diabetics.

Who is likely to develop Type-1?

Although anyone at any age can develop Type-1, it is appears to happen more often among youth, therefore the name Juvenile Diabetes. Demographically speaking the people most likely to develop JD are:

  • Younger than age 20.
  • 5% of the individuals, who develop one of the forms of diabetes, will develop Type-1.
  • Along racial lines, more Caucasians will get it than Blacks.
  • Both males and females are equally likely to develop JD.
  • It can run in families and one can be genetically predisposed to develop juvenile diabetes.

Because this condition is defined as autoimmune other conditions can occur as a result of Type-1 or, conversely, one can develop diabetes as a result of other conditions such as hypothyroidism and vitiglio.

Finally, what are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary from person to person. They generally include the following:

  • Increased thirst/dry mouth
  • Hunger- especially after eating a snack or meal
  • Nausea and possibly vomiting/ abdominal pain
  • Increased urination/ dehydration due to lost fluids
  • Increased weight loss even though the patient eats well
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Labored breathing-referred to as Kussmaul Respiration
  • Increased infections of skin, urinary tract, and vagina

If one has established they have Type-1, they should learn the symptoms to watch for in case of emergency:

  • Shaking/confusion
  • Rapid breathing
  • Breath smells fruity
  • Extreme abdominal pain
  • Although rare- loss of consciousness

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