Type 1 diabetes is the predominant type of diabetes in children, and the earlier the onset, the greater the risk of death from chronic complications. The treatment of children and adolescents is slightly unique compared to adult patients, which is related to the inherent characteristics of this age group.
Choice of insulin
There are many different types of insulins, and not all insulins that are appropriate for adults are appropriate for children and adolescents. Currently, the relevant dosing is as follows (see Table 1).
Other considerations in treatment
Children and adolescents are at a critical stage of growth and development and need to consume more energy, so parents should pay attention to giving their children more nutrition in general. They are also physically active. In addition to a reasonable amount of exercise, parents should monitor blood glucose to avoid hypoglycemia, which is usually recommended 6 to 10 times a day before 3 meals, 2 hours after meals, at bedtime and 2:00 to 3:00 at night, before and after extra meals.
Parents also need to pay attention to the psychological situation of children and adolescents, who are still young, do not know the disease as well as adults, and may be rebellious. Parents should communicate patiently so that they can correctly understand the importance of insulin, eliminate rejection, and actively cooperate with treatment.