Diabetes

Diabetes is not caused by eating too much sugar, and it is not contagious. Children with diabetes can participate in all school activities.

Hypoglycemia, low blood glucose, occurs when meals or snacks or skipped, a child participates in strenuous physical activity before lunch, or during lengthy field trips or field day activities. Warning signs of hypoglycemia include but are not limited to sweating, paleness, irritability, poor coordination, headache, shakiness, or confusion. Treatment is needed immediately as hypoglycemia is a medical emergency. Treatment options include giving the child glucose tablets, juice, or milk. Symptoms should improve within 15 minutes. If the child is conscious but not cooperative or disoriented, treatment should consist of glucose gel. If the child is unconscious or having a seizure, call 911 and notify the parents.

Hyperglycemia, high blood glucose, may be due to illness, eating too much, a missed insulin dose, or stress. Symptoms include extreme thirst and constant urination. Parents should be notified if symptoms persist and blood glucose is >300 mg/dl.

Some students may use insulin pump therapy which allows for continuous insulin to the child. The pump is worn outside the body and is the size of a pager.

Refer to the Diabetes Prevention and Control website for more information.