Growing up with diabetes

Growing up with diabetes can be a very intensive process that requires a lot of effort on an adolescent’s part in order to maintain a normal life. While having to learn all the processes associated with caring for a diabetes condition, juveniles face increased changes in their blood sugar levels as hormones begin to take hold, making extra attention to glucose ratings necessary. In girls, the beginning of the menstrual cycle marks a definitive change in their diabetic condition; blood glucose levels may vary wildly and special attention might need to be given to the monthly cycle.

It is important for those with diabetes who have just gotten their license to drive to ensure that their blood glucose levels aren’t too low when driving. The dangers associated with hypoglycemia while driving cause many states to require a written report by the diabetic showing that they understand and will try to control this serious issue. Before getting in the car, especially when taking a long trip, it is important to take a blood sugar reading. Stocking the car with snacks and glucose tablets is also a good idea, to make sure that you can bring your levels up to normal should you detect a low reading. If feeling a low while driving, diabetics should pull over and take a blood sugar reading. Learning good habits for diabetic drivers is crucial to keeping danger away.

Alcohol is another threat commonly faced by those growing up with diabetes. Alcohol in itself may lower blood sugar levels, while sugary drinks may cause levels to skyrocket. One big problem with drinking is that diabetics often attribute whatever they are feeling when they are drinking to the alcohol. This can lead to hypoglycemic reactions. It is important to know the carbohydrate and sugar levels of the drinks you are planning to consume, and to not overdo it. While drinking, it’s important to keep your medical ID on you at all times – the diabetic condition is not one to be taken lightly when problems with drinking occur.

Smoking is also an issue that needs to be discussed with someone that is growing up with diabetes. Diabetic conditions can cause such harmful problems as an increased risk for heart disease and kidney problems. Tobacco can fuel these problems, putting the diabetic at a terrible risk for complications later in life.

Dating is also something that needs to be discussed with an adolescent diabetic. Letting possible dates know about your condition beforehand can be important so that you are not stressed to act in a certain way. Dates may involve eating foods that don’t adhere to your diet, physical activities that may alter blood sugar levels, and additional stress. These factors can cause blood glucose levels to surge or falter, causing problems that would be much harder to explain than actually letting your date know about your condition.

These are all things to consider when making your child comfortable with growing up as a diabetic. The more confident that young people can be with their problem, the better chance they have of leading a leading a fun, fulfilling life.