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Juvenile Diabetes Essay

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Living with Juvenile Diabetes Diabetes medically known as diabetes mellitus is the name given to disorders in which the body has trouble regulating its blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels. Diabetes is due to one of two mechanisms inadequate production of insulin (which is made by the pancreas and lowers blood glucose) or inadequate sensitivity of cells to the action of insulin. (Definition). There are two different forms of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is known as non-insulin-dependent. Type 1 diabetes often develops in children, adolescents, and young adults, so it's sometimes called "juvenile diabetes". “According to the American Diabetes …show more content…

Hyperglycemia results when a glucose level rises above 120 mg/dL. Diabetes can be diagnosed by several tests. The fasting blood glucose test is a common test to use. To perform this test patients are not allowed to eat or drink for at least eight hours. This test is usually done in the morning before breakfast. A blood specimen is collected and sent to the lab. A normal result is a glucose level less than 100 mg/dL. Any result greater than 100 mg/dL on two or more tests indicates diabetes. Random blood glucose testing may also indicate diabetes. A random blood draw is obtained at any point in the day and sent for testing. A level greater than 200 mg/dL is positive for diagnosis. Because there is no cure, diabetes is controlled be diet, exercise, and medication. Type 2 diabetics can often control the disease process by diet and exercise alone. When the two prove not to be enough oral medication may also be used. Type 1 diabetics need insulin to control their blood glucose. Insulin is administered subcutaneously or into the tissues beneath the skin. Injection sites include the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and the anterior and posterior parts of the upper arm. If not properly controlled, diabetes can lead to several long-term complications. Examples include retinopathy, neuropathy, and vascular complications. Having a child diagnosed with diabetes can

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