Final answer:
Gabriel, exhibiting symptoms like excessive thirst and urination, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a common condition in children that involves poor regulation of blood sugar.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gabriel is 8-years-old and after several months of troubling symptoms, including increased thirst and urination, weight loss, blurred vision, and fatigue, his pediatrician diagnosed him with type 1 diabetes, one of the most common diseases in school-aged children.
Diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes, is often diagnosed in children and adolescents, due to the body's inability to produce insulin, which is necessary for regulating blood sugar levels. Key symptoms include excessive urination (polyuria), excessive thirst (polydipsia), unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, and fatigue. These symptoms are caused by high levels of glucose in the blood, which the body tries to expel through increased urination. The excessive loss of fluid then leads to dehydration and increased thirst. Since the glucose isn't being used properly by the body's cells, it leads to a lack of energy and fatigue. An early diagnosis and proper management are critical for maintaining a child's health and preventing complications associated with diabetes.