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Distinguishing between high and low blood sugar symptoms in a young child

Healthwise
By Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS

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Young children with type 1 diabetes are not able to recognize when their blood sugar level is high or low and then tell an adult, and sometimes it's even hard for a parent to tell the difference.

Some signs that may indicate high or low blood sugar in a very young child include:

  • Irritability, anger, or crying.
  • Paleness.
  • Nervousness or trembling.
  • Staring off or not responding when touched or spoken to.
  • Dark urine with a strong sweet odor.
  • Drowsiness or difficulty waking up.

When you see changes in your child, do a home blood sugar test. It will show the actual blood sugar level, eliminating the guesswork.

Credits

Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Stephen LaFranchi, MD - Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology
Last Updated December 3, 2008
Last Updated: 12/03/2008