http://www.diabetes.co.uk/kids/diabetes-and-sport.html

Gives specific advice for PE and sport.

Diabetes occurs when the pancreatic cells are damaged / destroyed and this prevents effective secretion of Insulin.

Type 1

 After diagnosis, a child will usually be referred to a local diabetes specialist normally in their local hospital.

Most children with diabetes are cared for by their hospital as opposed to their GP.

Type 1 typically means that the vast majority of islet cells have been destroyed and insufficient or zero insulin can be produced, the only certain method of treating diabetes in children is insulin treatment. i

Fast-acting insulin will generally be administered during the day, and nocturnal levels will be controlled by a slow-acting dose.

Insulin pumps are also common amongst children. Sometimes, in the initial period following diagnosis, small children will only need a very small dose of insulin, but this will unfortunately change as they grow older and larger. Good glucose control is essential in the management of all diabetics’ conditions.

Type 2

Treating type 2 diabetes in children depends entirely on how far their condition has developed. At an early stage, it may be possible to treat the condition with an abrupt lifestyle change incorporating a healthier diet and exercise. 

• mood change
• loss of concentration
• shaking
• headache
• dizziness
• sweating
• pale appearance
• glazed eyes
• hunger

• Extreme thirst
• Excessive passing of urine
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred or affected vision
• Thrush

The condition tends to develop quickly over days/weeks rather than months.

One or more of the following symptoms may be associated with diabetes:

• Thirst
• Tiredness
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination

Amongst children, specific symptoms may include stomach aches, headaches and behavioural problems.

• Pupils have to test blood sugar levels - decide with pupil where is the best place to do this
• Store sugar kit and emergency kit together and take on all trips outside school grounds
• Students are encouraged to test their blood sugar themselves as soon as possible
• If students need to inject Insulin, there needs to be an established place to provide privacy and safe disposal of used items (not a toilet area)
• Pupils with diabetes should be encouraged to drink water
• Students may need to use the toilet more frequently, consider position in classroom and a discreet toilet exit card
• Students may require extra snacks, it is the family's responsibility to provide this and ensure the items are appropriate for use.
• A care plan needs to be in place and regularly reviewed
• Extra planning needs to ensure safe inclusion on school trips
• Record and report food eaten during the day, ensure any dietary requirements are shared with lunch staff
• Students can become confused / disorientated / aggressive if their sugar level falls too low