Hyperglycemia (in Juvenile Diabetes)

Authored by: Gale Encyclopedia of Childhood and Adolescence

Also known as diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperglycemia develops over a period of a few days as the blood sugar levels of a diabetic child gradually rise. The first signs are frequent urination and increased thirst. The child may then show any of the following symptoms, including flushed face, dry skin, dry mouth, headache, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, drowsiness and lethargy, blurry vision, fruity-smelling breath, rapid heartbeat, and deep and labored breathing. Without treatment, the child can lapse into a diabetic coma and die. Treatment for hyperglycemia includes an injection of insulin, usually in combination with administration of intravenous fluids and salts.

Occurrences of hyperglycemia can be prevented by careful monitoring of the blood sugar levels, insulin injections, and a proper diet. Diabetic adolescents are especially susceptible to hyperglycemia, since hormonal levels are in flux and many adolescents exhibit erratic eating and sleeping patterns. Athletic activities can be beneficial since exercise makes use of surplus blood glucose.