Diabetes is a disease that is a silent killer. Not only does it affects the patient but also the family of the patient. This will be even more so for a child suffering from diabetes.
In a case of child diabetes, the child suffers but the family suffers even more both emotionally and physically. With child diabetes, some of the daily responsibilities can include blood glucose tests, insulin injections, meal planning and treating low blood pressure depending on the type of diabetes your child suffers from. As parents, you may feel even more heartache to see your child go through the process. It is perfectly normal to feel both anxious and overwhelmed for your flesh and blood. However, since children notice these emotions it is important to keep them in check for your child.
To care for a child with diabetes, these are a few things that you should take note :
1. Tips For Child Diabetes Testing
If your child has trouble with needles then it is best to prepare the testing supplies out of view. When it comes time for the test, you need to make sure you do it as quickly as possible and let the child resume normal activities right after the test is complete. If a child is fine with the testing process then perhaps you can allow them to take part by doing such tasks as wiping the spot with alcohol or select which finger to use for testing. Your child will be calmed by having a sense of control over the testing process.
2. How To Identify Signs Of Low Blood Sugar In Child Diabetes
Despite all the efforts on behalf of parents, children with diabetes are still going to have low blood sugar from time to time. A sign of low blood sugar may be a change from a child's normal behavior. If children become more irritable than usual or are becoming sleepy during a time they normally don't, then this can be a good indication that their blood sugar is getting low.
In case of low blood sugars, you should have something such as juice or soda on standby. For children with diabetes, drinks are better compared to something that needs to be chewed. It is best to have a meal or snack follow these sugar sources since they do not last long. This will prevent the blood sugar levels from dropping down again. To avoid low blood sugars at night it may be a good idea to do extra testing at night before bed.
Teach your child on how to identify signs of low blood sugar so that your child will be prepared and know what to do when that happens. Also ensure that they have a sugar source with them at all times just in case. It is also extremely important that you make sure your child wears a medical ID as all time. If your child isn't comfortable with having, others see the medical ID bracelet then consider getting a medical ID that is on a necklace so it can be worn under their clothes.
3. Mealtime Tips
Child diabetes can be especially challenging for a child when it comes to mealtime. If possible, it is best to make mealtime a calm and pleasant experience. Avoid choosing food for your child and expecting them to eat it, rather it is best to provide your child with a few food choices so they can still eat healthy but not feel forced to do so. Have everyone eat the same food so that the child won't be left out and the family can have the benefit of eating healthy food.
Child diabetes is a disease that can be managed and your child can still live a fairly normal life. It is not easy but with patience and love, it can be done!
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general information only, and should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis, nor as advice as to treatment of any specific medical condition. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in these pages are not intended to replace the care of your physician(s).
0 Comments