Parents should be careful not to blame childhood illness on Covid-19 if there are signs of conditions such as diabetes, campaigners warned today.
The charity Diabetes UK called on parents to look out for the signs of type 1 diabetes. These include extreme tiredness and thirst as well as increased urination and loss of weight.
According to its analysis, about 23% of new diagnoses of children and young adults only occur after diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical emergency.
It said it was now hearing from doctors that "disproportionate" numbers of young people are needing emergency care for DKA.
Dan Howarth, from the charity, said: “We know that parents currently have a million things on their mind, and they’re doing everything they can to keep themselves and their families safe during the coronavirus outbreak.
“But diabetic ketoacidosis can be a life-threatening complication of diabetes. If a child or young person does not receive immediate treatment for DKA, it can lead to coma, or even death.
“It is vital that parents are aware of the early signs of type 1 diabetes and seek help if they need it. The NHS is open, and the health service is still there for you."
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