August 1, 2001
Diagnosis and Symptoms
Question from Burbank, California, USA:
My eight month old son, who is perfectly normal (based on pediatric check-ups), seems to be having sudden short seizures emanating from his head and arm(s) which last a few seconds, and then he continues his activities as if nothing had happened. He seems to have a normal appetite, does not urinate frequently and doesn’t seem thirsty during the day.
Recently, someone suggested that he might have diabetes based on the seizures and cold feet and hands. His hands and feet are cold at times and normal temperature at other times. I can’t find a list of general symptoms that would help me determine if this is something I should be concerned about or not. Can provide me with a list symptoms that I can use to evaluate my son’s situation?
Answer:
The symptoms you relate are not classic for diabetes in very young children. I would suggest talking with your pediatrician about seeking consultation with a pediatric neurologist. A pediatric neurologist is most likely to be able to determine the cause of seizures in children.
MSB
[Editor’s comment: See symptoms of diabetes.
SS]
