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Type 1 Diabetes in Children: Treatment Options and Insights

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Imagine a young boy who lived a life full of carefree fun. His parents and relatives pampered him, and he was allowed to eat whatever he wanted, play as much cricket as he liked, and enjoy sleepovers with his friends. But everything, from his diet to his schedule, changed when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. When a child needs to be constantly monitored for his blood sugar levels and insulin injections several times a day, parents and caregivers will have only one question — can this be cured? Let’s take a deeper dive and understand this ailment that prevents the pancreas from making insulin.

Current Treatments for Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes in children cannot be cured, but it can be managed with treatments and therapies. Treatment options include –

1. Insulin:

All children with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily, maybe multiple times a day, to keep blood glucose levels within normal range. Insulin is given either by injection or insulin pump. There are different types of insulin, such as –

• Rapid-acting insulin:

This type of insulin needs to be taken 15-20 minutes before meals, as the insulin starts working within 15 minutes of the shot. The effect of the insulin reaches its peak after one hour and lasts about 4 hours.

• Short-acting insulin:

The effect of this insulin, also called regular insulin, starts around 30 minutes after you take the injection. The peak comes at 90-120 minutes and lasts about 6-8 hours.

• Intermediate-acting insulin:

This insulin starts working in 1 to 3 hours and reaches a peak effect at 6-8 hours, with the effect lasting for about 12-24 hours. It is also known as NPH insulin.

• Long-acting insulin:

The effect of this insulin lasts for 14 to 40 hours.

2. Monitoring blood sugar:

Children with Type 1 diabetes have to monitor their blood sugar levels throughout the day, at least 4 times a day, to ensure the levels are within normal range. You can monitor your child’s glucose levels in the following ways —

• Glucometer:

In this method, you have to prick your child’s finger and put a drop of blood on the test strip provided with the meter, and the reading will appear immediately. However, this shows your glucose level only at the time of testing.

• Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) :

With a small sensor inserted under your skin, the CGM device records your child’s blood glucose level every few minutes. The reading will appear on a receiver, your smartwatch/smartphone. You can also set alarms to alert you when the sugar level spikes or becomes too low.

• Closed loop system:

This device is implanted in the child’s body and connects a continuous glucose monitor to an insulin pump. The monitor records the glucose levels regularly and when blood glucose becomes low, the device automatically pumps the right amount of insulin.

3. Eating healthy:

Eating the right foods plays an important role in managing blood glucose levels. Your child’s diet must have nutritious foods that are low in carbohydrates, fats, and calories such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, etc. Another important part of the diabetes management plan is counting carbohydrates in the foods and drinks you consume because carbohydrates increase blood glucose levels. Your dietician will help prepare a diet plan that aligns with your child’s food preferences and also teach you about carb counting.

4. Regular physical activity:

Regular exercise is a must for children with Type 1 diabetes, as it helps to lower blood sugar levels. As physical activity can affect blood sugar levels, the child’s diet chart and insulin doses have to be planned accordingly. Seek help from your dietician on the amount of physical activity required for the child.

Research Insights on Type 1 Diabetes

Scientists are conducting research to find a cure for Type 1 diabetes in children, more specifically, to find treatments for reversing or slowing down the effects of diabetes. Here are some insights –

• Stem cell therapy:

In this procedure, stem cells will be used to create insulin-producing beta cells, restoring the body’s ability to produce insulin. As a result, the child may not need insulin or require a reduced dose.

• Artificial pancreas systems:

These devices will do the job of a healthy pancreas, helping those with Type 1 diabetes maintain their glucose levels within normal range. The procedure involves combining continuous glucose monitoring with automated insulin delivery.

• Inhaled insulin:

The person will inhale insulin through the mouth instead of taking injections.

• Closed-loop insulin delivery systems:

The systems will monitor glucose levels and automatically adjust insulin delivery when the glucose levels become high or low.

• Gene therapy:

This involves reprogramming other cells in the body to produce insulin, thereby replacing the function of beta cells which have been destroyed.

• Islet cell transplantation:

In this procedure, the islet cells containing insulin-producing beta cells will be transplanted from a donor into a person with Type 1 diabetes.

Conclusion

Managing a child with Type 1 diabetes can be overwhelming. But, with the right treatment plan and support, you will be able to maintain the blood glucose levels of your child within normal range and help him/her live a healthy and fulfilling life. In case of any emergency, a health insurance policy will cover the hospitalisation expenses and reduce your financial burden.

FAQs

1. Is Type 1 diabetes in children curable?

Currently, there is no cure for Type 1 diabetes, but it can be managed with treatment, healthy eating, and regular physical activity. Ask your dietician for a meal plan and stick to it. Ensure your child has meals on time.

2. My child has Type 1 diabetes. Does he need insulin?

Yes, all children with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections daily, may be multiple times a day. Your doctor will prescribe the dosage and the number of times he should take insulin.

3. How will I ensure my child’s blood glucose levels are stable?

Depending on the condition, you or your child must monitor glucose levels regularly, i.e., before every meal and bedtime. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide the best guidance on how to manage blood glucose levels effectively.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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