Baby diabetes, specifically diabetes that occurs within the first 6 months of life, is called neonatal diabetes.
Understanding Neonatal Diabetes
Neonatal diabetes mellitus is a rare condition where infants cannot produce enough insulin. Insulin is a crucial hormone that helps our cells utilize glucose (sugar) for energy. In infants with neonatal diabetes, the deficiency of insulin leads to elevated blood glucose levels.
Key Aspects of Neonatal Diabetes:
- Timing: It develops in the first six months of life.
- Insulin Deficiency: The primary issue is inadequate insulin production.
- Blood Glucose: This deficiency results in increased blood sugar levels.
Difference from Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes
It's important to distinguish neonatal diabetes from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, which typically develop later in life. Neonatal diabetes is usually due to genetic mutations affecting insulin production rather than autoimmune responses or lifestyle factors.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing neonatal diabetes usually involves blood tests to measure blood sugar and insulin levels. Management typically includes insulin therapy to help the infant maintain healthy glucose levels.
