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What are the symptoms of diabetes?

 


Symptoms of Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Early detection of diabetes is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes—but there are common signs to watch for.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

  1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)

    • High blood sugar levels force the kidneys to filter out excess glucose, leading to increased urination.

  2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)

    • Frequent urination can cause dehydration, making you feel constantly thirsty.

  3. Extreme Hunger (Polyphagia)

    • Despite eating more, you may still feel hungry because your cells aren't getting enough glucose.

  4. Unexplained Weight Loss

    • This is more common in Type 1 diabetes. The body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy when it can't access glucose.

  5. Fatigue

    • High or low blood sugar levels can make you feel unusually tired or weak.

  6. Blurred Vision

    • High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the eye lenses, leading to vision changes.

  7. Slow-Healing Wounds or Frequent Infections

    • Diabetes can impair blood circulation and weaken the immune system, slowing down wound healing and making you more prone to infections.

  8. Tingling, Pain, or Numbness in Hands or Feet

    • This is a symptom of diabetic neuropathy, a complication of prolonged high blood sugar levels.

  9. Darkened Skin Patches (Acanthosis Nigricans)

    • Velvety, dark patches of skin, often around the neck or armpits, can be a sign of insulin resistance.

  10. Mood Changes or Irritability

  • Fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect mood and mental clarity.

Symptoms Specific to Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes symptoms often develop quickly, sometimes within weeks or months, and are usually more severe.

  • Rapid weight loss.
  • Nausea and vomiting due to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening emergency).

Symptoms Specific to Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes symptoms often develop gradually and can be mild, making them harder to detect.

  • Increased risk of infections, such as urinary tract infections or yeast infections.
  • Mild or no early symptoms (sometimes called “silent diabetes”).

Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and may not always have noticeable symptoms.

  • Increased thirst and urination.
  • Fatigue, which can be mistaken for normal pregnancy fatigue.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss.
  • Signs of diabetic complications, such as numbness in extremities or slow-healing wounds.
  • Family history of diabetes and risk factors like obesity, inactivity, or high blood pressure.

Diagnosis

If diabetes is suspected, your doctor will conduct tests such as:

  • Fasting Blood Sugar Test
  • HbA1c Test (measures average blood sugar over 2–3 months).
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes early can help you seek timely medical attention, reducing the risk of complications. If you experience any symptoms or have risk factors for diabetes, consult a healthcare professional for testing and personalized advice.


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