High blood sugar symptoms in a child with type 2 diabetes

Content provided by Healthwise

High blood sugar symptoms in a child with type 2 diabetes

If your child's blood sugar levels are consistently 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) to 350 mg/dL, he or she may have mild symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased urination if he or she is drinking plenty of liquids. Some people may not notice any symptoms when their blood sugar level is in this range.

A child who does not drink enough liquids to replace the fluids lost from high blood sugar levels can become dehydrated and have:

• A dry mouth and increased thirst.
• Warm, dry skin.
• A weak pulse.

If your child's blood sugar levels are consistently high (usually above 350 mg/dL), he or she may have moderate to severe symptoms of high blood sugar. Your child may have blurred vision and drowsiness or difficulty waking up. If your child is not drinking enough liquids, he or she may also have symptoms of dehydration, such as:

• Dizziness or weakness when sitting or standing.
• High urine sugar levels, which may lead to large quantities of light or clear urine.
• Lightheadedness.

If your child's blood sugar continues to rise, he or she also may have:

• Rapid, deep breathing.
• A strong, fruity breath odor (similar to the smell of nail polish remover or acetone).
• Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and/or vomiting.

A child with very high blood sugar levels may become confused and lethargic or lose consciousness.

Credits

Last updated:	August 14, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology & Metabolism
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman