Researchers are still working on finding a definitive answer to what causes childhood diabetes. That definitive answer remains elusive, but much has been learned along the way. All of the factors that can lead to childhood diabetes aren’t known yet, but it has been determined that the susceptibility to the condition, known as type 1 diabetes, can be inherited. That said, what causes childhood diabetes to occur more in whites than blacks, yet equally in males and females remains a mystery. In the United states, about one out of every 250 people have type 1 diabetes, with the condition usually appearing before the age of 20.

Environmental factors are part of what causes childhood diabetes. It seems that type 1 diabetes can occur when something in the environment triggers the body’s immune system to attack the pancreas and destroy the beta cells of the organ. The beta cells are responsible for producing insulin, and when they are damaged enough they can no longer produce enough insulin for the body. There are markers of this destruction, known as autoantibodies, which can be found in most type 1 diabetes patients. When blood sugar levels are high, these autoantibodies are present in 85% to 90% of patients tested. Either toxins or viruses could responsible for what causes childhood diabetes patients immune systems to turn on themselves. Doctors aren’t sure yet about the exact environmental factors involved.

 

What are the Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes?

 

Even if we don’t know exactly what causes childhood diabetes, the symptoms are known, and you should know them too. They can sometimes be subtle at first, becoming more severe as the condition worsens, and especially if untreated. Some of the symptoms include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Increased hunger (especially after you just ate)
  • Persistent dry mouth
  • Nausea or vomiting when not otherwise ill
  • Abdominal pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss (even though you are eating regularly)
  • Fatigue, or a feeling of weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Heavy, labored breathing
  • Frequent infections of the skin, urinary tract, or vagina

 

How does Childhood Diabetes Get Diagnosed?

 

The first thing your physician will check are your blood sugar levels. If these are higher than they should be, a simple urine test will check for glucose or ketone levels.

Additional blood tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests are sent to a lab for analysis and are usually more accurate. The standard diagnosis for diabetes is two separate blood tests that show a fasting blood glucose level greater than or equal to 126mg/dL.

Even if we don’t yet fully understand what causes childhood diabetes, once diagnosed the condition is manageable and many people with the condition go on to live long and healthy lives.