Juvenile Diabetes: What You Need to Know
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), juvenile diabetes, also
known as Type 1 diabetes, affects 5% of the American population. This type of diabetes is caused
by the pancreas' inability to produce insulin, resulting in the body's cells being unable to use
or store glucose. Juvenile diabetes almost exclusively affects children and teenagers; however,
adults can also develop the disease. Doctors are uncertain as to what causes juvenile diabetes,
but they believe that genetics and certain diseases may be factors.
It's difficult to receive an early diagnosis because the signs of juvenile
diabetes can occur without warning. These symptoms of juvenile diabetes include increased hunger,
excessive thirst or urination, tiredness, and weight loss. You should schedule a visit with your
doctor if you experience any of these juvenile diabetes symptoms.
Since people with juvenile diabetes are insulin dependent, they rely on daily
doses of insulin. You can receive insulin by either using a syringe, pen or pump. Most diabetics
require insulin shots between 2 to 4 times per day. In addition to self-administering insulin,
people with juvenile diabetes must also test their blood sugar multiple times day, preferably at
meals and before bedtime. Knowing your blood glucose level throughout the day will allow you to
make adjustments to either your diet, exercise or medication regimen.
Since it's more common for people under the age of 20 to be diagnosed with Type 1
diabetes, parents need to pay special attention to the signs of juvenile diabetes. If you notice
your child experiencing any juvenile diabetes symptoms, you may need to talk with your
pediatrician. If your child has been newly diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, then you may want to
talk with him or her about the importance of insulin use and regular glucose testing.
To ensure that your child remains healthy, you may want to have these supplies on
hand to help educate your child about how to manage his or her diabetes.
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Juvenile diabetes Testing Supply
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Usage
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Frequency
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Blood glucose meter and test
strips
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Used to determine glucose level in the blood
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3-4 times per day is the minimum
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Ketone Strips
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To test for ketone levels
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Whenever blood glucose levels are 240 mg/dl
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Syringes and lancets
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Used for insulin injections
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As your doctor prescribes
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Logbook
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Record your daily BG levels, as well as any
changes you are experiencing, ketone levels, exercise, injection concerns, etc.
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Daily
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Glucose tablets or a snack
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Emergency situations when your BG level drops
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As needed
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Personal Identification
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Lets people know your medical situation should you
become unconscious or injured
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Emergencies
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Carrying Case
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Keeps all your testing supplies together
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Especially nice when travelling
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In addition to taking medication and using diabetes supplies, people with juvenile
diabetes should eat healthier and incorporate more exercise into their daily routine. Taking
better care of yourself will not only lower your blood glucose levels, but it'll improve your
overall health. Talk with your doctor to learn more about what is juvenile diabetes. He or she can
provide additional information about the disease.