Increased thirst, frequent trips to the bathroom and unexplained weight loss may seem like unrelated changes in a child's health, but they can be early warning signs of type 1 diabetes.
For parents and caregivers, recognizing these symptoms is especially important because they are often mistaken for common childhood illnesses. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, Type 1 diabetes can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications.
"Children may not always be able to explain when something feels wrong, which is why it's important for parents to pay attention to changes in their health," said Dr. Khurrum Siddique, MD, a board-certified pediatric nephrologist with South Texas Health System (STHS) Clinics. "Recognizing the warning signs and seeking medical attention early can make a significant difference in ensuring children receive the care they need."
An estimated 2.1 million Americans are living with Type 1 diabetes, including more than 314,000 children and adolescents younger than 20, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that develops when the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels.
While there is currently no cure, children with type 1 diabetes can live healthy, active lives with proper treatment and ongoing medical support.
Following a diagnosis, families often face a learning curve that includes monitoring blood sugar levels, administering insulin and adapting daily routines to support their child's health at home, at school and during extracurricular activities.
"A type 1 diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when families are suddenly faced with learning how to manage a chronic condition," said Dr. Siddique. "But with the right information, guidance and support team, parents can gain the confidence they need to help their child thrive."
To help families better understand the condition and the resources available to them, STHS Children's will dedicate its next Let's Talk Children's Health webinar to type 1 diabetes.
Broadcast live on the STHS Children’s Facebook page on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the free virtual seminar will feature a healthcare professional discussing the signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, what families can expect after a diagnosis and strategies for helping children successfully manage the condition.
For more information about the webinar, visit the STHS Children’s Facebook Events page. To view previous Let's Talk Children's Health seminars, visit STHSLetsTalk.com.
Who: South Texas Health System Children’s
What: FREE virtual seminar entitled “Let’s Talk Children’s Health – Type 1 Diabetes"
When: Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Where: Online via STHS Children’s & STHS’ Facebook pages
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system's South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first dedicated children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart and seven freestanding emergency rooms located in and around Alamo, Edinburg, McAllen, Mission, Pharr and Weslaco. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.
