This article has been authored by Dr. Nidhi Malhotra, who is an Endocrinologist at Jaypee Hospital Noida. She has done MBBS, MD (Medicine) & DNB in Endocrinology. To know more about Dr. Nidhi Malhotra or book an appointment, please call 0120 – 412 2222
Diabetes can be categorized into two based on the body’s production and use of the hormone insulin. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body not making insulin while in type 2 diabetes, the body does not make or use insulin as it should. Of the two types, type 2 is the most common of all. However, not everyone has gotten to the point where they can conclusively determine whether they are suffering from diabetes or not. This determination is entirely based on the patients identifying their symptoms and making a judgment before seeking advice from a medical practitioner. Surprisingly, studies have shown that of all the people living with type 2 diabetes, 25 percent are unaware of it.
On visiting a medical facility, in order for the doctor to determine whether you have diabetes or not, a series of tests are carried out. However, some of the following symptoms may indicate the possibility of being diabetic, and once identified should get the afflicted to see a doctor for further testing.
Increased bathroom breaks
Diabetes makes the body inefficient in the breaking down of glucose in the blood. This sends the kidneys into overdrive trying to correct this, therefore, the increased urge to relieve oneself.
Excessive thirst
This symptom goes hand in hand with the previous one. The body tries to replenish the fluids lost through increased urination by increasing the thirst of the afflicted.
Loss of weight
Rapid loss of weight over a short period of time is a diabetes indicator. Loss of weight is a result of the body being forced to break down the protein stored in the muscles to get energy because the insulin hormone has failed to get glucose into the cells where it can be used as energy.
Hunger
High blood sugar creates a problem of glucose regulation by the body. This makes the body produce high amounts of insulin when it shouldn’t, leading to glucose levels dropping and making the body crave for more.
Skin issues
Poor circulation may lead to skin irritability which is a clear indicator of diabetes. Other skin conditions such as acanthosis nigricans can also be a warning sign of diabetes.
Slow healing
Diabetes is known to reduce the healing rate of infections, cuts, and bruises. The excess amount of glucose in the blood vessels ends up damaging them making it difficult for blood which is necessary for healing to travel to the different areas of the body.
Feeling fatigued and grumpy
Constantly taking bathroom breaks especially during the night is bound to make one feel tired. The extra mile that the body goes in order to compensate for blood sugar deficiency is also another factor that causes fatigues. Being grumpy comes as a result of being fatigued at all times.
Blurry vision
This symptom results from the levels of sugar in the blood changing the shape of the lens and the eye. This may cause the afflicted to see occasional flashes of light and floaters.
More prone to urinary tract and yeast infections
Fungi and bacteria are known to thrive well in areas rich in sugar content. High blood sugar heightens the likelihood of getting a variety of infections and the most common are yeast and fungal infections.
Tingling or numbness
Tingling and numbness is also another diabetes symptom. These symptoms are as a result of nerves being damaged by the level of blood sugar in the body.
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