VALENCIA, November 14 (EUROPE PRESS) –
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Valencian Society of Pediatrics and the Valencian Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, has prepared a decalogue of recommendations for dissemination to the population to promote the early detection of diabetes mellitus in minors.
According to the Generalitat, there are currently a total of 370,000 people in the Valencian Community prescribed pharmacological treatment for diabetes, of which 1,021 are pediatric patients under 14 years of age with type 1 diabetes. statement.
The prevalence of diabetes is approximately 14 percent of the population of the Valencian Community – more than 90% have type 2 diabetes – but experts estimate that half are unaware of it.
Therefore, it is “important” to identify symptoms of diabetes in minors “in order, in addition to treating their disease and improving their quality of life, to avoid serious decompensations that cause hospitalization.”
The Ministry of Health agreed with both scientific societies to disseminate these recommendations in order to “improve” the early diagnosis of this pathology.
Therefore, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician if your child has symptoms such as extreme thirst and drinking more fluids than usual; if you feel the need to urinate frequently, even at night or wet the bed again, or if you feel constantly hungry and want to eat more than usual.
Other reasons to see a pediatrician include weight loss despite increased appetite; feeling tired and lacking energy that does not improve with rest; and changes in behavior such as irritability or unexpected mood swings.
These recommendations and decalogue of symptoms are complemented by problems concentrating on school or daily activities; changes in vision, such as blurred vision or difficulty concentrating; increased susceptibility to infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections; as well as repeated fungal infections of the genital organs.
TYPES OF DIABETES
Diabetes mellitus is a disease that causes hyperglycemia in the patient’s blood. In type 1 diabetes, the cells responsible for producing insulin are unable to do so, and it is replaced by daily insulin injections or pumps.
With regard to type 2 diabetes, the cells responsible for producing insulin are present, but they find it difficult to do so effectively due to excess weight, so it is important to promote a healthy lifestyle. In addition, there is a genetic condition.
The increase in new cases is progressive. These are people at risk of long-term complications (problems with vision, kidneys, circulation, limbs or brain). Family history also plays a role and should be taken into account if a family member has or has had diabetes.
However, many of these cases could be avoided with a good diet and physical activity program. In particular, experts recommend avoiding foods rich in fat, processed foods with quickly digestible carbohydrates, and sugary drinks. You should also avoid a sedentary lifestyle and exercise regularly.