Question
My child has started to show symptoms of fever and upper respiratory tract infection, and after being diagnosed at the hospital, it turned out to be diabetes. How is it possible for a child so young to have diabetes? Is it genetic? I hope they can recover quickly because they are still young, and there is a long road ahead.
Answer
Juvenile diabetes often appears suddenly, with distinct symptoms of increased urination, thirst, eating, and weight loss. This is commonly referred to as “three more and one less.” School-age children may drink and urinate 3 to 4 liters or more daily, often feeling thirsty and drinking water at night. Appetite increases but weight decreases. Young children often exhibit bedwetting and weight loss, which may attract the attention of parents. Infants and young children may present with bedwetting symptoms, and the increased thirst and urination are often overlooked. Some may not seek medical attention until they develop diabetic ketoacidosis. About half of children with juvenile diabetes present with diabetic ketoacidosis as the first symptom, and the younger the age, the more severe the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, confusion, drowsiness, and even complete coma. The “three more and one less” symptoms are often overlooked. They may also experience dehydration and acidosis. Severe acidosis can lead to deep, irregular breathing. If not diagnosed and treated promptly, the child may be at risk of life-threatening complications.