Diabetes

Understanding Pediatric Diabetes

Diabetes affects how a child’s body uses glucose for energy. In children with diabetes, the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin (Type 1), or the body becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2). Since insulin is essential for delivering glucose into cells for growth and development, poorly controlled diabetes can impact your child’s overall health, growth, immune system, and emotional well-being. Managing pediatric diabetes is not just about controlling blood sugar, but also about supporting normal growth, preventing complications, and addressing emotional and developmental needs as children mature.

Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Children

• Type 1 Diabetes: Typically diagnosed in younger children, this autoimmune condition requires daily insulin therapy. Children with Type 1 need close monitoring to balance insulin, nutrition, physical activity, and school routines.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Increasingly diagnosed in older children and adolescents, Type 2 diabetes often relates to excess weight, sedentary lifestyles, and genetics. Early lifestyle changes, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medications can help children manage Type 2 diabetes and avoid long-term complications.

Key Considerations for Pediatric Diabetes Care

Children with diabetes require care that evolves as they grow. At our clinics, we focus on:

• Ensuring proper growth and weight gain
• Monitoring puberty and hormonal changes that impact blood sugar
• Helping children manage diabetes at school, during sports, and social activities
• Addressing emotional health and preventing diabetes-related anxiety or burnout
• Involving the whole family in diabetes education and daily care routines
• Building lifelong habits for healthy eating, exercise, and stress management

Symptoms Parents Should Watch For

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss or delayed growth
• Fatigue and irritability
• Frequent infections or slow-healing wounds
• Blurred vision or headaches
• Bedwetting or potty training regression

In many cases, early intervention allows for better outcomes and prevents serious complications. That’s why regular well-child visits are so important for early detection and monitoring.

Comprehensive Pediatric Diabetes Management

At Pediatric Medical Center and Armand Pediatrics, our pediatric diabetes care includes:

• Accurate blood glucose monitoring and early diagnosis
• Insulin therapy and medication management customized for your child’s age and lifestyle
• Family-based nutrition and weight management counseling
• Education on managing blood sugar during school, sports, travel, and growth milestones
• Emotional support to help children and parents cope with the daily demands of diabetes care
• Referral to pediatric endocrinologists and diabetes educators when needed

If your child has been diagnosed with diabetes or you have concerns about symptoms, contact Pediatric Medical Center or PMC – Armand Pediatrics today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. We are here to partner with your family in managing your child’s health with care, compassion, and expertise.