Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is also known as in sulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile-onset diabetes. It occurs because the in sulin-producing cells of the pancreas (beta cells) are damaged. As a result the pancreas makes little or no in sulin, so sugar cannot get into the body's cells for use as energy. Symptoms usually develop over a short period of time and include increased thirst, frequent urination, constant hunger, weight loss, and extreme fatigue. Children with Diabetes must use in sulin injections to control their blood glucose.

Sick Day Guidelines

• Call your doctor before you take your in sulin but after you have tested urine for ketones and the blood sugar.
• You always need to take in sulin, but the dose has to be adjusted.
• Ketones should be checked as often as 2–4 hours until they are negative.
• Ketones can be present in the urine even if the blood sugar is normal or low.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Sugar or sugar-free will be determined by the situation.