October 10, 2000
Diagnosis and Symptoms
Question from Round Rock, Texas, USA:
I have three sons, the middle one is 10 years old and was diagnosed at age five with type 1. I am always on guard for any symptoms that ever present in my other children. My youngest son is now six and does appear to drink excessively, tire easily, and he even had an “accident” this morning which prompted me to test his glucose. He had just finished breakfast and had a reading of 138 mg/dl [7.7 mmol/L]. Should this prompt me to have him tested further? What kind of testing would be done?
Answer:
I think that a blood sugar of 138 mg/dl [7.7 mmol/L] soon after breakfast is well within normal limits. However he does have a roughly 5% chance of developing type 1A (autoimmune) diabetes at some stage. If this makes you anxious, you could do some fasting blood sugars. It might be more reassuring to ask his doctor about an antibody test. If you call 1-800-425-8361 they can provide details, and, in the unlikely event that he was positive, you would have a chance to participate in the DPT-1 study.
Remember though, that small boys can drink a lot in hot weather, particularly if something other than tap water is on offer!
DOB
