How do I handle problems arising from type 1 diabetes
Sleep disturbance may happen if the sugar level drops low or rises. Adjust the insulin dose as appropriate.
Puberty comes with a marked increase in growth, and a need to adjust the insulin dose. Pubertal hormones and this growth and menstruation also affects how much insulin you use.
Not finishing up a plate can affect your energy levels because you have not eaten enough. The insulin dose may need to be adjusted accordingly.
If one unfortunately gets ill, vomiting, poor appetite and hormones produced during sickness can affect one’s insulin needs.
The whole idea is to measure the blood sugar levels constantly in order to see how various states and conditions affect the insulin needs and therefore ensure correct dosing over time.
Regular medical check-ups
The doctor will need to test the blood for good diabetes management. If low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) are not well managed, they may lead to complications like Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
The signs and symptoms of low blood sugar are sweating, irritability and other mood changes, difficulty concentrating or confusion, dizziness or lightheadedness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, pallor, hunger, shakiness, loss of consciousness and seizures. If this happens, give sugar (glucose), retest the blood sugar and follow up with a snack or meal.
The signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia are fatigue, nausea, increased thirst or dry mouth, frequent urination and blurred vision. If this happens, test the sugar levels. Know how long to wait before you retest.
Diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA)
When the body severely lack insulin, the body breaks down fat for energy which produces a substance called ketones. DKA is a life-threatening condition when the body builds up excess ketones.
The signs and symptoms of DKA include nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain, a sweet, fruity smell on your child’s breath, confusion, Thirst or very dry mouth, increased urination and dry or flushed skin. If this happens, seek emergency care as soon as possible.