Insulin & Type 1 Diabetes in Children
Type 1 diabetes in children is a chronic condition that requires lifelong insulin. A diabetes care plan is crucial for keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
With proper management, children with type 1 diabetes can lead active and healthy lives. This article covers how insulin injection works in type 1 diabetes and the different ways that insulin can be administered to children.
Key Information About Children with Type 1 Diabetes
- Diabetes mellitus type 1 is a long-term (chronic) condition. It can begin at any age. Type 1 diabetes affects only 5% of diabetics.
- Type 1 diabetes is characterized by abnormally high blood glucose levels.
- It is most commonly caused by an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- To keep blood glucose levels within normal ranges, children with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections.
- Blood glucose levels continue to rise in the absence of insulin, and death occurs.
- Children with type 1 diabetes can live active, healthy lives with insulin administration and other management activities.
What is a Diabetes Care Plan, and How Does It Work?
A diabetes care plan is a set of guidelines that you and your child must follow. The plan's goal is to keep your child's blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
A diabetes care plan consists of four components:
- examining blood sugar levels - With a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
- Taking insulin
- eating a healthy, balanced diet, and counting carbs
- actively involved in regular physical activity
The diabetes healthcare professional will teach you and your child the ins and outs of the plan, as well as how to follow it. There will be a lot to learn at first, but you will quickly become an expert.
