An estimated 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year, and about 13,000 of these new cases are children. That's an average of 36 new diagnoses of childhood diabetes every day.

Type I Childhood Diabetes

Most diabetic children have Type I diabetes, commonly known as "juvenile" or "childhood diabetes". This condition is present at birth and prevents the body from producing insulin. Many people born with childhood diabetes are not diagnosed until adolescence. Children and teens with the condition must learn about the proper treatment methods.

Signs of Type I Childhood Diabetes

Without warning, a diabetic attack can happen. Attacks come on suddenly, sometimes before the child has even been diagnosed. As you can imagine, this can be a terrifying episode for parents. That's why every parent must recognize the warning signs. These attacks can have long-lasting consequences without treatment, and may be even be fatal.

There are signs and symptoms of juvenile diabetes that you can watch for. Extreme thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite or weight loss, sleepiness, labored breathing, sudden changes in vision and a sweet, fruity smell to the breath are common signs. Knowing these can be the first step to saving a life.

Childhood diabetes is easily mistaken as other illnesses. Never assume, and seek immediate care if you notice that your child shows one or more of these symptoms. See your doctor and insist that your son or daughter be tested for diabetes.

Failure to diagnose childhood diabetes can have awful consequences. However, if the condition doesn't run in your family, you may not automatically identify the need to know all the symptoms. There are three main symptoms of childhood diabetes to keep in mind at all times: thirst, frequent urination, and blood glucose levels.

If your son or daughter makes frequent trips to the bathroom, seems unusually thirsty or shows both of these signs, he or she may have elevated levels of blood sugar. Children, who seem to be lethargic or overly sleepy, feel clammy or just seem to be "off" might benefit from a trip to the doctor for a simple urine or blood test.

Your family doctor or pediatrician may evaluate your child for other conditions as well, but it's important to rule out the possibility of childhood diabetes. If the condition goes undiagnosed and an attack occurs, you will be faced with sorting things out in an emergency situation.

Health Risks Associated with Childhood Diabetes

When a child is diagnosed with diabetes, a long list of potential health problems is brought to light. If blood sugar levels are low, your child may suffer from difficulties with vision, kidney and liver problems and even a great risk of heart attack and stroke.

Elevated blood sugar levels, on the other hand, can increase the possibility of infection. Yeast infections, tooth abscess, wounds that won't heal, gangrene from infected wounds and a host of other ailments are possible. Nerve damage to the feet and other extremities can occur. These conditions can potentially cause pain and irreversible damage.

Childhood diabetes forces kids to deal with some very grown-up concerns. Ask you doctor to perform a blood screening to ensure early detection. If diagnosed, work with your child and follow the treatment instructions carefully. It's the best way to ensure that your child leads the happy and healthy life that he or she deserves.