Does My Child Have Diabetes?

It’s completely normal for parents to worry about their child’s health. If you’ve noticed your child drinking more than usual or needing more bathroom breaks, you might find yourself wondering about serious conditions like diabetes.  

While diabetes is less common in children than in adults, it's crucial to know the signs, as early detection is vital for preventing severe complications. Lurie Children’s experts in Endocrinology, Dr. Abby Dieguez and Dr. Mary McCauley, answer any questions you may have about childhood diabetes. 

Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes in Children

If your child has been drinking more than usual or making frequent trips to the bathroom, here's what else to look for, and when it's time to call your pediatrician.

Frequent Urination

A sudden jump in how often your child needs the bathroom, including a previously potty-trained child wetting the bed again or having daytime accidents, is often the earliest and most noticeable sign. It happens because the kidneys are working to flush excess sugar out of the blood, pulling extra water along with it.

Excessive Thirst 

Because so much fluid is being lost through urination, your child may seem constantly dehydrated — asking for water, juice, or milk over and over, no matter how much they've already had.

Constant Fatigue 

A lack of energy is a serious sign that your child’s body is struggling. They are unusually sluggish, irritable, sleepy, or just don't have the energy for their usual activities like playing or sports. This is because glucose can’t get into the cells to provide energy.  

Unexplained Weight Loss 

If your child is eating normally (or more than usual) but still losing weight, their body may be breaking down fat and muscle for energy because it can't use glucose properly.

When to Contact Your Pediatrician 

If you notice any of the above symptoms, especially if they appear suddenly, contact your pediatrician immediately. A simple blood or urine test can quickly confirm or rule out diabetes. 

It is particularly important to seek emergency care if you notice these urgent symptoms, which can indicate a dangerous complication called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): 

• Deep, rapid breathing (like panting) 
• Fruity odor on the breath (like nail polish remover)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Nausea and repeated vomiting
• Confusion or extreme drowsiness 

While noticing these signs can be frightening, early diagnosis and treatment can help your child manage their diabetes effectively and live a full, healthy life. If you have any concerns, always trust your instincts and consult your child's pediatrician. 

What is diabetes in children? 

Diabetes happens when the body doesn't make enough insulin, or can't use it properly. Insulin is a hormone from the pancreas that works like a key, letting sugar from food move out of the blood and into cells for energy. When that process fails, sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead.

The two main types seen in children:

• Type 1 Diabetes (T1D): An autoimmune disease where the body mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It often appears suddenly and is the most common form of diabetes in children.
• Type 2 Diabetes (T2D): More common in adults, but rates are climbing among adolescents, especially those who are overweight or obese. The body still makes insulin but doesn't use it efficiently.

Diabetes Screening for Children 

Kids with risk factors can be screened even without symptoms present. This includes children with a family history of Type 1 diabetes or autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or celiac disease (screened via pancreatic antibody tests), and children who are overweight with a family history of Type 2 diabetes (screened for insulin resistance).

While these symptoms can be frightening, early diagnosis means your child can go on to manage diabetes well and live a full, active life. Trust your instincts, and don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician with any concerns.

Learn more about Lurie Children’s Pediatric Diabetes Program here.