Diabetic Symptoms
Diabetes presents as a multitude of symptoms, some of which may not be immediately apparent. However, early recognition of these signs can significantly impact the management of the condition. The symptoms can vary depending on the blood sugar elevation. Diabetes Type 1 symptoms manifest rapidly and can be life-threatening. In type 2 and pre-diabetes, these develop slowly and may not even be noticed.
Symptoms Of Diabetes Type 1 and Type 2
The signs and symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes are:
| Increased thirst . As the glucose accumulates in the blood, the body tries to protect itself by diluting the level. So many believe they are being healthier because they are drinking more water. |  |
Frequent urination.The kidneys go into overdrive, trying to reduce the glucose in the blood and the increased water volume we are drinking. Basically, the kidneys are like a pot of water. When it reaches its full capacity, it overflows. This causes increased and frequent urination. Meanwhile, the kidneys are being overworked and damaged. |
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NocturiaThe need to urinate at night, is another symptom. Normally, we can sleep through the night without having to get up to urinate. But with the glucose levels out of control, the kidneys cannot shut down as they try to eliminate the excess sugar. This is the body’s way of adapting to the condition, even though it may be mistaken for a sign of increased water consumption. |
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Increased appetite.Remember that glucose is used by the cells as a substance and energy. Yes, there is plenty of sugar in the plasma, but glucose cannot enter the cell because we lack insulin or the cells are resistant to what is there. The cell signals to the brain that it needs energy, so we eat more. |
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Unexplained weight loss.There comes a point where the body must have nutrients, so the brain begins to break down muscle and fat to convert as other energy sources. Of course, we are happy for the wrong reason, which is that we are losing weight. |
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KetonuriaPresence of ketones in the urine. Ketones are a byproduct of the breakdown of muscle and fat that happens when there’s not enough available insulin. |
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Fatigue. No energy is transformed from sugar. |
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IrritabilityIrritability can be a common symptom of diabetes, primarily caused by fluctuations in blood sugar levels, where both high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can contribute to mood swings and increased irritability; essentially, when blood sugar levels are not well-managed, it can lead to feeling easily frustrated and on edge. |
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Blurred vision.Blurry vision can be caused by diabetes due to several factors, including: | ||
Diabetic retinopathyHigh blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina, which can cause them to swell and leak. This can lead to blurry vision and is the leading cause of blindness in adults ages 20–74. |
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Diabetic macular edema (DME)Fluid leaks from blood vessels in the retina into the macula, which is responsible for sharp, central vision. This can cause blurry vision. |
Diabetic macular edema (DME)Fluid leaks from blood vessels in the retina into the macula, which is responsible for sharp, central vision. This can cause blurry vision. |
HyperglycemiaHigh blood sugar levels can cause blurry vision, headaches, increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. | |
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If you notice blurry vision, you should get your blood sugar back into the target range. This can take up to three months, and your vision may not fully return to normal. You should also tell your eye doctor, as blurry vision could be a symptom of a more serious problem. | ||
Slow-healing sores | ||
High blood sugarHigh blood sugar levels can prevent nutrients and oxygen from reaching cells, and make it harder for the immune system to function. |
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Nerve damagePeripheral neuropathy can cause numbness and reduced pain sensation, which can lead to chronic wounds. |
Poor circulationDiabetes can cause circulation problems that prevent oxygen from reaching wounds. |
Compromised immune systemDiabetes can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infection. | |
Conclusion
So, as you can see, as diabetes gets worse, the symptoms progress. Many of these symptoms we ignored at first because we related them to other reasons. Meanwhile, the complications build. Next month, we will cover complications.
