Make sure you know these early warning signs and risk factors. Even your doctor or pediatrician can mistake some of the signs for the flu and send you home. That could land you in the emergency room! If you have a hunch it might be diabetes, please ask your doctor to check. A simple test will let you know right away if your blood sugar is high.
Early Warning Signs
•Obese or overweight (present in 85% of new cases)
•Dark velvety skin around neck or other body folds
•Increased thirst, urination or hunger
•Fatigue
•Blurred vision
•Sores that heal too slowly
•High blood pressure due to obesity or family history
•High cholesterol level
•Irregular menstruation or polycystic ovaries in girls
Risk Factors
•Elevated blood glucose level
•Not very active physically
•Close relative has Type 2 Diabetes
•Mother had gestational diabetes when pregnant
•Ethnic heritage is Hispanic, African American, or Native American
•High blood pressure or high cholesterol levels
Ask Your Doctor...
...to test your child's blood sugar level if you notice any early warning signs or risk factors
...what lifestyle changes will make a difference?
...what resources and support are available to help you make needed changes?
...what medications, if any, are needed and how to administer them?
...what pre-appointment restrictions, such as fasting, are required before laboratory testing of blood sugars?
