Diabetes symptoms depend on how high your blood sugar is. Some people, especially if they have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, may not have symptoms. In type 1 diabetes, symptoms tend to come on quickly and be more severe.
Some of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are:
1. Sores that are slow to heal
According to The Mayo Clinic, high blood glucose levels can cause poor blood flow, which impairs the body’s natural healing process. People may notice slow-healing ulcers, especially on the feet.
2. Weight loss for no apparent reason
When glucose is lost through urine, calories are also lost. In turn, this condition prevents glucose from food from reaching the cells. The combined effect can cause a rapid decrease in body weight.
3. Frequent urination
Diabetes causes excess glucose to build up in the blood. The kidneys must work overtime to filter and absorb that glucose.
4. Increased thirst
The glucose that is excreted in the urine, drags the liquids from the tissues, which causes dehydration. This will usually make you thirstier.
5. Fatigue
A high level of glucose in the blood impairs the body’s ability to use it to meet its energy needs. Dehydration from increased urination can also make you feel tired.
6. Blurred vision
Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can cause swelling of the tissues and damage to the blood vessels in your eyes, including diabetic retinopathy, macular edema (often associated with diabetic retinopathy), cataracts, and glaucoma.
7. Extreme hunger/ polyphagia
This is a sign that cells are not absorbing energy from food despite having plenty of reserves.
8. Frequent infections
Infections may occur, for example vaginal, gum or skin infections.
Diabetes is a serious condition, so all of these signs need to be taken seriously.
If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor. Keep in mind that the faster a diagnosis is made, the treatment can also be carried out sooner, so you can keep it under control and have a better quality of life.
Reference: mayoclinic.org