Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that affects the body's production of glucose and insulin levels. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin. Type 2, gestational and prediabetes are all a result of an excess amount of sugar in the blood (high glucose levels).
Diagnosing pediatric diabetes
If a pediatrician suspects that your child may have type 1 diabetes, a blood test will be administered. There are multiple types of blood tests for type 1 diabetes in children:
- Random blood sugar test — Taken at a random time, this is the primary screening test for anyone who may have type 1 diabetes.
- Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test — This test can indicate a child’s average blood sugar level for the past two or three months.
- Fasting sugar blood test — After a child fasts overnight, a blood sample is taken to indicate their blood sugar level.
Pediatric diabetes care at Wesley Healthcare
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children can appear in a matter of weeks. Regular visits to a pediatrician ensures that children and teens with diabetes are receiving the care they need.