Symptoms of Diabetes
Symptoms of diabetes often develop gradually, particularly in Type 2 cases, making early detection difficult. However, recognising the early signs of diabetes is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Without intervention, high blood sugar levels can damage vital organs and lead to serious complications.
Common Symptoms
Frequent urination (polyuria): Excess glucose in the blood draws water from tissues, increasing urine production
Excessive thirst (polydipsia): Resulting from frequent urination and dehydration
Extreme fatigue: Lack of glucose entering cells leads to energy depletion
Unexplained weight loss: More common in Type 1 diabetes due to the body burning fat and muscle for fuel
Increased hunger (polyphagia): Glucose doesn’t reach cells, triggering the body to signal more food intake
Other Notable Symptoms
Blurred vision: High blood sugar alters fluid levels in the eye
Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections: High glucose impairs immune response and tissue repair
Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet (neuropathy): Especially in longstanding or poorly controlled diabetes
Darkened skin around the neck or armpits (acanthosis nigricans): Often associated with insulin resistance
Symptoms of Diabetes in Type 1 vs Type 2
Type 1 symptoms appear suddenly and are more severe, often within weeks
Type 2 symptoms develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years
In both types, symptoms worsen over time if left untreated
Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes
Often asymptomatic and detected during routine pregnancy screening
Some women may experience increased thirst or more frequent urination
When to See a Doctor
If experiencing multiple symptoms, especially thirst, fatigue, or vision changes
Routine screening is advised for those over 45 or with risk factors
In summary, symptoms of diabetes are warning signs that something is wrong with how the body handles glucose. Early recognition allows for faster intervention, reducing the risk of complications and improving long-term health.
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