Childhood Diabetes
Diabetes is a defect in the body’s ability to convert glucose from the food we eat into energy. Normally, the carbohydrates in the food you eat are broken down into the simple sugar called glucose, which is the primary source of fuel for your body. After digestion, the glucose passes into your bloodstream. This is necessary so it becomes available for body cells to use for growth and energy. A hormone called insulin, which is created by the pancreas, regulates the use of glucose by the body’s cells.
Diabetes in Children
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make insulin. Without insulin, blood sugar is not removed from the blood and can elevate to dangerous levels. This type is often managed through taking insulin. Type 1 used to be the main type of diabetes in children. However, with the rise of obesity, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and teens.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either does not make insulin or does not use it well. Type 2 diabetes can be improved and controlled with proper diet and exercise, and sometimes medications are needed. To lower risk of type 2 diabetes, promote physical activity in your child and help them maintain a healthy weight. Have nutritious foods available, limit processed foods and fast foods, and limit tv and video game time.
Symptoms of Diabetes
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Weight loss
- Extreme hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Irritability and/or unusual behavior
- Frequent yeast infection in girls
The diagnosis of diabetes in your child can be overwhelming, but with consistent care and management, you can help your child control this condition.
Immunizations
You may have read conflicting information on vaccine safety, and The Children’s Clinic is here to help give you informed information on vaccines in order for you to make an informed decision for your child.
The Children’s Clinic fully believes in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines to prevent illness and save lives. Based on current studies and scientific literature, we believe vaccinating children and young adults is a proactive intervention in preventing childhood disease and promoting health.
Ask your doctor for more information or if you have any questions about vaccine safety or our vaccine policy.
Prenatal Consultation
Are you expecting and want to find the best care for your little one once he or she arrives? Deciding on a pediatrician before your baby arrives gives you time to make an informed decision and feel confident about your choice.
Call our office for an appointment to interview one of our physicians and see if they are a good fit for you. The Children’s Clinic takes great pride in providing exceptional and compassionate care and is confident our physicians can provide what you need.
Our staff can provide routine lab and X-ray services to our patients in the office. These services provide convenience for you and your family and can help us with diagnosis and management of acute illness.
Clinic provides regularly scheduled well-child check up examinations throughout infancy to young adulthood. At well-child checkups, your doctor will monitor your child’s growth and development, provide scheduled vaccines against common illnesses, screen for health conditions, and address any concerns you may have. Age appropriate tips on nutrition and safety will be discussed as your child grows.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and address any educational, behavioral, or developmental concerns you may have. Our physicians are here for you.