Every year we observe World Diabetes Day on 14th November throughout the globe. We also celebrate Children’s Day on the same date in memory of the birthday of Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru aka Chacha ji.
This year, I especially want to talk about both Diabetes and kids. It cannot be correct, right? How can kids be diabetic, it’s a disease of the elderly. Yes, it used to be a lifestyle disorder typically seen in older patients but the emergence of Type-2 Diabetes in kids is very concerning.
As per an article submitted to the medical journal JAMA Network, India had the greatest number of children’s diabetes diagnoses and fatalities globally in 2019. The country additionally has the most disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
Diabetes presents multiple barriers, particularly for young individuals. However, with early identification, kids and teens may learn how to handle diabetes and remain as healthy as necessary. Early indications in children can be elevated thirst and urine output.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Children
Type 2 diabetes among kids is a chronic condition that alters how the kid’s body uses sugar for energy. In the absence of treatment, the disease allows sugar to accumulate in the circulation, potentially leading to catastrophic long-term implications.
Type 2 diabetes is more frequent in grownups. It was formerly known as adult-onset diabetes. However, as the percentage of obese children grows, so does the prevalence of type 2 diabetes among these young individuals.
There are several things you can take to assist your kid to control or avoid type 2 diabetes. Teach your kid to consume nutritious foods, exercise regularly, and keep an adequate weight.
Causes of Emerging Cases of T2DM in Kids
Insulin is generated by the pancreas, a gland situated beneath the stomach. When you ingest food, the pancreas releases insulin into your bloodstream. When blood sugar levels fall, the pancreas reduces insulin release throughout the bloodstream.
When your child develops type 2 diabetes, this mechanism is not as functional. As a result, rather than feeding cells, sugar accumulates in your kid’s circulation. This could occur because:
- The pancreas might not produce sufficient insulin.
- The cells grow tolerant to insulin and permit fewer sugars in.
Signs & Symptoms of T2DM
The primary manifestations of type 2 diabetes are:
- Frequent urination, particularly at night,
- Increased thirst.
- Fatigue
- Unexpected weight loss
- Itching on one’s genitals, maybe due to the growth of yeast.
- Cuts and injuries heal slowly.
- Dry eyes can cause hazy vision.
Complications of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 2 diabetes can harm almost every organ in a child’s body, particularly the blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys. Continuous effects of type 2 diabetes arise progressively over time. The consequences of diabetes can become serious, even fatal.
Consequences of T2DM caused by high glucose levels include:
- High cholesterol.
- Heart illness.
- Stroke
- Nerve damage.
- Kidney disease.
- Eye diseases, including loss of vision.
Maintaining your child’s blood glucose levels near normal can significantly lower the likelihood of these issues.
Conclusion:
The rising number of lifestyle disorders among children and teens raises a lot of concerns. Type 2 Diabetes is one of those. In India, elevation in cases of T2DM is directed toward the mass change in eating and lifestyle patterns. There is a dire need to adopt healthy changes in lifestyle patterns. Moving towards a wholesome path of living should be our topmost priority.
Homeopathy can surely help your kids in cases of T2DM cases along with general management. Homoeopathy works in a holistic way targeting the underlying causes and boosting metabolism. However, no self-medication should be done. Always consult a homoeopathic doctor before starting your Homeopathic medicines.
Dr Kiran Swami
Dr. Kiran Swami, BHMS, MD (Hom.), a Research Officer at BJain Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., holds degrees from Nehru Homeopathic Medical College, Delhi, and Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur. With expertise in homeopathy and a passion for research, she drives innovation in holistic healthcare solutions.