Type 2 diabetes is a major health problem, not only in the United States but around the world, and occurs in both developed and developing countries. It is so widespread that many doctors and other health care professionals have dubbed it an “epidemic” and it can lead to many serious complications such as kidney disease, blindness and amputations.
Due to these serious issues, early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetes is incredibly important: it can prevent the complications mentioned above and give the patient more options for treatment. Many of these options are nonmedical and include lifestyle changes including weight loss, regular exercise and a balanced diet. This can save the patient from having to undergo expensive medical treatment. Ten early warning signs of type 2 diabetes are listed below.
Increased Urination
Urinating more frequently or in higher amounts is a common symptom of diabetes; it is the way in which the body tries to rid itself of excess sugar. This symptom should definitely be reported to the doctor.
Persistent Thirst
Due to the increased urination, the body loses fluids more quickly and it is easier to become dehydrated. Thirst is the body’s signal that dehydration is occurring and that more fluids are needed.
Hunger and Cravings
Diabetes, untreated, can involve highs and lows in blood sugar which change throughout the day; when the blood sugar is low, the cells are starved for glucose. Hunger and cravings are the body’s attempt to correct this and get the cells the glucose that they need to function.
Dry Mouth
Due to the excessive urination and the dehydration it causes, diabetics frequently complain of dry mouth. This is a concern since it can lead to issues like gum disease and other oral conditions.
Change in Weight
Weight changes – especially weight loss – is another sign that should be reported. When cells are deprived of glucose, the body reacts as if it were starving and begins to use protein from muscles as an energy source. This can lead to unexplained weight loss and muscle wasting.
Low Energy Levels
When the body has to compensate for lack of glucose in the cells, the result can be a lower energy level and chronic fatigue. This is a frequent complaint among many diabetics.
Visual Disturbances
Chronic high blood sugar actually changes the shape of various parts of the eye and can cause blurred vision, flashes of light and other disturbances. Fortunately, if caught in time, these changes are reversible.
Headaches
Chronic headaches can frequently result from elevated blood sugar. If the diabetes is left untreated and gets worse, the headaches, too, can frequently become more serious.
Slow Healing
Cuts and bruises that take a long time to heal are a classic sign of diabetes. This is because diabetes can damage blood vessels and make it harder for the body to transport blood to the wound and begin the process of repair.
Yeast Infections
Untreated blood sugars can promote the growth of fungi and other microbes. This can lead to an overgrowth of yeast and to fungal infections.
If these signs and symptoms are familiar and diabetes is suspected, get tested right away. Early detection and treatment can have a large impact on future health and quality of life.
Sources: idf.org, diabetes.about.com, medicinenet.com
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