Childhood diabetes: Your essential guide

Key Takeaways

• Type 1 vs. Type 2: Type 1 diabetes in children is an autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin, with a rapid onset of symptoms. Type 2 is characterised by the body not producing enough insulin or not using it effectively, with symptoms that develop more slowly.
• Distinct Risk Factors: Risk factors for Type 1 diabetes are primarily genetic and environmental, such as family history and exposure to certain viruses. For Type 2, risk factors are more often linked to lifestyle, including being overweight, physical inactivity, and family history.
• Holistic Support is Crucial: A comprehensive support system is necessary for managing childhood diabetes. This includes medical professionals like paediatric endocrinologists and dietitians, as well as mental health professionals to help the child and family cope with the emotional and psychological impact.

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Diabetes in children, whether Type 1 or Type 2, is a condition that affects how the body uses insulin, a vital hormone. In Type 1 diabetes, the body stops producing insulin altogether. Since insulin is essential for survival, the missing hormone must be replaced through injections or an insulin pump. This condition was previously known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it effectively. While this type is more common in adults, it’s becoming more prevalent in children and teens.

Regardless of the type, receiving a diagnosis can be daunting. You and your child will have to quickly learn a new routine, which may include giving injections, counting carbohydrates, and monitoring blood sugar levels. While there is currently no cure for either type of diabetes, both conditions can be managed effectively with the right care and support.

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes in children

The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes can appear quickly—often within a few days or weeks. It’s important to be aware of the four main signs, commonly known as the “4 T’s.”

1. Toilet 

Your child is urinating a lot more often. This can include a previously potty-trained child suddenly wetting the bed, or a baby’s nappies being much heavier. They may also need to get up during the night to use the toilet.

2. Thirsty

Your child seems extremely thirsty and can’t quench it. You might notice them asking for drinks more often or finishing them very quickly.

3. Tired

Your child is unusually tired and has less energy than normal. They may not be as interested in playing or taking part in sports.

4. Thinner

Your child is losing weight or looks thinner than usual, even without a change in their diet or routine.

Risk factors for Type 1

While Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children, it can develop at any age. The exact cause is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to be responsible.

Risk factors for the condition include:

• Family history: A child has a slightly increased risk of developing Type 1 diabetes if a parent or sibling has it.
• Genetics: Certain genes are known to increase the risk.
• Ethnicity: In the UK, Type 1 diabetes is more common among white children.
• Viruses: Exposure to certain viruses may act as a trigger, causing the immune system to mistakenly attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  

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Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes in children

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes in children are similar to those of Type 1, but they tend to be less obvious and develop more slowly, often over several weeks or months. You may still notice some of the following signs:

• Increased urination and thirst.
• Unusual tiredness or lack of energy.
• Weight loss or looking thinner than usual.
• Getting more infections than normal.

A child with diabetes may show these symptoms differently from an adult; for example, they might lose interest in playing games because they have less energy. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be prevented. Research has identified several risk factors, including ethnicity, genetics, and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.

Risk factors for Type 2

While Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, a growing number of children are being diagnosed with the condition.

The risk factors for children are largely similar to those for adults, with some key differences:

• Weight: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor. Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin.
• Family history: A child has an increased risk if they have a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with Type 2 diabetes. This suggests that genetics play a strong role.
• Ethnicity: In the UK, Type 2 diabetes is more common in children from certain ethnic groups, including those of South Asian, African Caribbean, and Black African descent.
• Physical inactivity: A lack of regular physical activity contributes to a higher risk. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively and helps to manage weight.
• Maternal health: Children born to mothers who had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
• Puberty: Most cases of Type 2 diabetes in children are diagnosed during puberty. This is because hormonal changes during this time can temporarily increase insulin resistance. Adolescent girls are also more likely to develop the condition than boys.
• Low socioeconomic status: Research suggests that children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be more vulnerable due to factors such as limited access to healthy food and safe spaces for physical activity.

Understanding what your child is going through

A diagnosis of diabetes can be a frightening and confusing time for children and teens, whether it’s Type 1 or Type 2. The memory of the actual event is often a blur of feeling unwell, a sudden trip to the hospital, and waking up surrounded by medical staff and anxious parents.

For those with Type 1 diabetes, the diagnosis often comes unexpectedly, with a swift and dramatic onset of symptoms that require immediate medical attention. The new reality is a constant juggling act of insulin, blood sugar checks, and careful meal planning—a lifelong responsibility that can feel overwhelming and unfair.

While Type 2 diabetes in children and teens often develops more gradually, the diagnosis is no less impactful. It can bring with it a sense of guilt or shame, and a difficult new reality of managing diet, exercise, and sometimes medication to control blood sugar.

Regardless of the type, a child’s natural response is often to feel scared and upset. They may long for a return to the way things were before, not managing a complex and lifelong medical condition. This new reality can be isolating, making them feel different from their peers and burdened with a responsibility far beyond their years.

Help and support

Medical and clinical

• Paediatric endocrinologist – A doctor who specialises in hormone disorders, including diabetes.
• Diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES) – A healthcare professional who provides practical education on managing diabetes, such as checking blood sugar, administering insulin, and carbohydrate counting.
• Dietitian – A specialist who can help create a healthy and balanced meal plan that fits the child’s needs and lifestyle.
• Mental health professional – A counsellor or psychologist can help the child and family cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of living with a chronic illness.

NHS and charities

NHS talking therapies

Diabetes UK

Breakthrough T1D

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing paediatric homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

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