Management of Type 2 Diabetes in Children

Type 2 diabetes in children is a chronic condition that affects the metabolism of the child's body. Several environmental and genetic factors are responsible for the onset of type 2 diabetes in children. Children who develop type 2 diabetes face many serious disease management challenges that are different from those faced by adults with the same condition.

To deliver safe, effective, high-quality, cost-effective health care to children with type 2 diabetes, reorganization and redesign of health care system is needed. Effective treatment of type 2 diabetes requires a combination of lifestyle modification and medications. Management of type 2 diabetes in children includes dietary advice, control and monitoring of glucose levels, lipid levels, blood pressure monitoring and detection followed by management of complications.

Change in Lifestyle

By subjecting the child to healthy dietary change and by promoting physical activity, type 2 diabetes can easily be managed. Healthy diet doesn't mean that the child has to avoid his favourite foods altogether, but it does mean including a variety of whole grain and low fat foods in his diet and cutting back on high calorie and high sugar foods and drinks. Paediatric endocrinologist and nutritionists work together to educate the parents and children on how to follow the specified diet especially designed for them. Make changes in the child’s daily routine that can directly impact the management and complications of diabetes.

Medications

Many medicinal treatments are followed to manage type 2 diabetes in children. Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic agent that is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes for paediatric population (age 10 years and older). Insulin is a frequently used in treatment of type 2 diabetes management in children. Insulin is necessary at the time of diagnosis for children with severely uncontrolled diabetes or in addition to mono-therapy with an oral agent. Use of metformin alone for the treatment depends on the severity of the diabetes in children. Sometimes reintroduction of insulin is required to maintain adequate glycemic control.

Management options for type 2 diabetes in children include a comprehensive lifestyle modification plan and careful consideration of medical interventions. Managing diabetes in a child takes effort, but treatment helps the child to stay healthy. You should support children with diabetes by educating yourself and, to set an example, living a healthy lifestyle yourself.

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