Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is a common condition affecting millions of children worldwide. As the prevalence of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes increases, it's essential for parents and caregivers to understand the early signs of hyperglycemia and how to monitor their child's blood sugar levels effectively.
The Risks Associated with Unchecked Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia can lead to a range of complications in children, from mild symptoms like thirst and fatigue to severe consequences such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. In children, hyperglycemia can also impair growth and development, leading to delayed puberty or stunted growth.
Recognizing Early Signs of Hyperglycemia
The early signs of hyperglycemia in children often mimic those of common childhood illnesses. Look out for:
Increased thirst and urination
Fatigue and lethargy
Cuts or wounds that take longer than usual to heal
Frequent infections, such as yeast infections or urinary tract infections
The Importance of Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
Monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial in managing hyperglycemia. Children with diabetes should check their blood sugar levels at least four times a day using a glucometer. Parents and caregivers can also use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to track blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Common Causes of Hyperglycemia in Children
Hyperglycemia in children is often caused by:
Obesity, particularly abdominal obesity
Family history of type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes
Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
Poor diet and consumption of high-sugar foods
Managing Hyperglycemia through Diet and Exercise
By making a few simple changes to your child's diet and increasing their physical activity levels, you can help manage hyperglycemia. This includes:
Eating a balanced diet that is low in added sugars and saturated fats
Encouraging regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming
Limiting sedentary activities like watching TV or playing video games
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your child shows any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
Severe vomiting or diarrhea
High fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Confusion or altered mental status
Dr. Pagnani of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates discusses Seroquel (quetiapine) a blood sugar reading over 300 second generation antipsychotic (SGA) that is FDA approved to treat anxiety, bipolar depression, bipolar mania and schizophrenia. It can be a very effective medication but also can have several side effects, some of which are discussed in this video.
Dr. Pagnani is the founder and medical director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, an Instructor at The Johns Hopkins Hospital for the Department of Psychiatry, he supervises psychiatric residents at Jefferson Hospital, he serves on the Young Professional Board of Uplift, the Center for Grieving Children and he maintains a private practice of Psychiatry in Philadelphia where he sees patients for one-time psychiatric evaluations and second opinions. He is a licensed physician and surgeon in NJ, PA, NY, MD, DE, FL and CA and can provide consultations to individuals via HIPAA compliant Telehealth visits living in these locations.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private 105 blood sugar fasting practice of psychiatry consisting of about 25 psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners and psychotherapists with physical locations in Philadelphia what should blood sugar levels be 2 hours after eating and Paoli, PA and serving all of PA, NJ, NY and FL virtually via HIPAA compliant tele-psychiatry. Individuals seeking not only evaluations but long-term psychiatric care, can contact Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates directly.
These videos aim to increase awareness and discussion of mental health topics and to encourage struggling individuals to schedule an appointment directly with a mental health provider. Mental health needs to be normalized, and simply speaking about mental health topics openly, is an important first step.
Dr. Pagnani and Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates are NOT advocating for or against the use of any mentioned psychiatric medications for any specific individual. Additionally, any side effects mentioned are not a complete list of potential side effects or contraindications to taking any mentioned medications, and all risks and benefits of a medication should be discussed with an individual’s provider at an appointment, before starting, stopping or making changes to a medication regimen.
This video is INFORMATIVE ONLY - NOT MEDICAL ADVICE.
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