It's not always easy to be a kid. They face all sorts of growing pains, from sibling rivalries and playground bullies to growth spurts and acne. But the biggest challenges are face by children with chronic medical conditions.

Juvenile diabetes is an illness that not only hinders life as a kid, but also may also brutally change the shape of adulthood. Even healthy, active kids who suffer from juvenile diabetes face an opponent that can rob them of their good health as they grow into adults. As parents, we can take necessary steps today to help raise a healthier kid.

It's easy to misinterpret and misunderstand the symptoms and causes of juvenile diabetes. Here are some of the facts that every parent needs to know:

The Basics

First and foremost, you need to that you are not to blame for your child's condition. It's also important that your child understands that he or she did bring on the disease. In spite of what many people believe, Type I or "juvenile" diabetes cannot be caused by sugar overload or childhood obesity. This is a genetic condition.

When kids have juvenile diabetes, an autoimmune response to pancreatic antigens is created, causing these proteins to break down. The pancreas delivers the insulin that breaks down glucose and converts the glucose into energy. In the United States alone, approximately 1.4 million people suffer from this form of diabetes.

Symptoms and Effects

There is a long list of possible side effects associated with juvenile diabetes. Kids can suffer with foot ulcers, digestive problems, possible kidney failure, difficulties with eyesight and even blindness. Symptoms of juvenile diabetes can include weight loss, blurred vision, excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue or lethargy and a numbing or tingling sensation in the hands and feet. If your child talks about having one or more of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your physician right away.

Treatment

There is no way to prevent the cause of juvenile diabetes, but there are treatment methods available to help to control the disease and reduce your child's discomfort. If your child is diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, your first step is to find a diabetes clinic in your area. Insist on a doctor's referral to see a physician specializing in juvenile diabetes. Your child's specialist will prescribe insulin and speak to you about diet and exercise requirements. You'll learn how to monitor your child's glucose levels on a regular basis.

And you'll need to be sure that your child is taking his or her medications properly, and eating the right foods. You'll also need to be sure that your child stays healthy and active, because exercise is very important in staving off potential complications of juvenile diabetes.

Parents naturally want to prevent our children from harm and suffering; but unfortunately, some things are simply out of our control. Juvenile diabetes is a genetic disease that cannot be prevented. There are, however, precautions that may be taken.

See your doctor if you are concerned that your child may have juvenile diabetes. If anyone in your family has a history of diabetes, make sure that you know how to spot all of the signs and symptoms.

Take steps to help keep your child healthy. With smart food choices and plenty of exercise, your child can enjoy the healthy, carefree lifestyle that every kid deserves.

Tags: medicine, supplements, time management