Type 1 Diabetes In Children: Is Insulin Safe For Kids?

Type 1 diabetes is a metabolic condition in which a person or a child's body is unable to produce insulin. Since insulin is necessary for the metabolism of blood glucose, synthetic insulin is provided via injections or an insulin pump. Notably, most cases of type 1 diabetes are diagnosed in children or adolescents, hence this type of diabetes is also called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.

The diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in kids can be overwhelming for the parent as well as the child. However, knowing about the condition, its symptoms and the best ways to manage it can put them at ease. Let's understand more about it in this blog.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Kids

Common signs and symptoms of juvenile diabetes (type 1 diabetes) include:

1. Excessive thirst
2. Frequent urination
3. Increased hunger, even after eating
4. Unexplained weight loss
5. Blurred vision
6. Slow healing of cuts or wounds
7. Recurring infections, such as yeast infections

If you notice these symptoms in a child, it's important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Also Read: Juvenile diabetes: Early signs to watch out for

Insulin Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Treatment for type 1 diabetes in children includes:

• Taking insulin as advised by the doctor
• Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels
• Eating a healthy and balanced diet
• Exercising regularly

Insulin is essential for diabetic patients who suffer from type 1 diabetes and is entirely safe. Existing studies indicate that insulin pump therapy is safe for children.

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As parents, you will work closely with your child's healthcare and diabetes management team to keep your child's blood glucose levels within normal limits.

Also Read: Insulin therapy: All you need to know

Types of Insulin For Children

A child with type 1 diabetes would require lifelong management with one or more types of insulin. Here's all about some common types of insulin:

1. Rapid-Acting Insulin

This insulin starts working within 15 minutes of administration and reaches its peak in 60 minutes. Its effect lasts for around 4 hours and is often given 15 to 20 minutes before a meal.

2. Short-Acting or Regular Insulin

This insulin begins to act around 30 minutes after injection and reaches peak effect in around 90 to 120 minutes. The effect of regular insulin lasts around 4 to 6 hours.

3. Intermediate-Acting Insulin

This insulin type works in about 1 to 3 hours after administration and reaches its peak in 6 to 8 hours. The effect of intermediate-acting insulin lasts 12- 24 hours.

4. Long-Acting and Ultra-Long-Acting Insulin

As the name suggests, these insulin types provide coverage for 14 to 40 hours.

Insulin Administration

A few delivery options that may be used for administering insulin to your child include:

1. The traditional needle and syringe

For this method, you would require an insulin vial and an ultrafine disposable syringe. The most common places for insulin injection are the belly (abdomen), the back of the upper arms, the upper part of the buttocks and the outer portion of the thighs.

2. Insulin pen with a fine needle

This device would look similar to that of a glucose monitoring kit as it has a pen with pre-loaded insulin. It should be used on a single person, multiple times.

3. Insulin pump

A small device known as an insulin pump is worn on the outside of the body and can be programmed to deliver specific amounts of the drug throughout the day.

4. A closed-loop system

It is a device that is implanted in the body and is linked to a continuous glucose monitor system and an insulin pump. The monitor checks your child's blood sugar levels throughout the day and automatically delivers the exact amount of insulin when the monitor indicates so.

Keep a constant check on your blood sugar levels with, Apollo’s HbA1c Test

Conclusion

To sum up, insulin is safe and vital for the well-being of your children with juvenile or type 1 diabetes. Insulin administration allows them to effectively manage their blood sugar levels and prevent complications as they grow older. While there may be concerns about insulin use, advancements in technology and a better understanding of dosing have made it safer than ever before. With proper medical supervision and support, parents can confidently administer insulin to their children and help them live their lives to the fullest. If you have more concerns,

Consult Apollo’s Expert Diabetologists

 

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.