Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose, a vital source of energy. It’s a global health concern, with millions of people living with the disease....CONTINUE READING
What’s concerning is that many individuals remain undiagnosed until diabetes has already progressed. Recognizing the early signs of diabetes is crucial in managing the condition and preventing complications.
1. Frequent Urination.
One of the most common early signs of diabetes is frequent urination. When your blood sugar is high, your kidneys work overtime to eliminate the excess glucose.
This results in increased urination, especially during the night. If you find yourself making more trips to the bathroom than usual, it might be a signal to get your blood sugar checked.
2. Excessive Thirst
Along with frequent urination, excessive thirst is another telltale sign of diabetes. The body’s attempt to get rid of the extra glucose through urine can lead to dehydration, making you feel incredibly thirsty.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
While it may seem like a welcome change, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of diabetes, especially in type 1 diabetes. When the body can’t use glucose for energy, it starts breaking down fat and muscle, causing weight loss. If you’re losing weight without intending to, consult a healthcare professional.
4. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired, even after a full night’s sleep, can be a sign of elevated blood sugar levels. Glucose is essential for energy, and when your cells can’t access it properly, you might experience fatigue.
5. Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can cause changes in the shape of the lens in your eye, leading to blurred vision. If your vision has suddenly deteriorated, it’s important to rule out diabetes as a potential cause.
6. Slow Wound Healing
Diabetes can affect your body’s ability to heal, leading to slower recovery from injuries, cuts, or infections. If you notice that your wounds are taking longer to heal than usual, it’s a sign that your blood sugar levels may be off.
7. Tingling and Numbness
Diabetes can damage nerves, a condition known as neuropathy. Tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in your extremities, particularly in the hands and feet, can be early indicators of nerve damage.
8. Recurring Infections
High blood sugar impairs the body’s immune system, making it easier for infections to take hold. Frequent yeast infections, urinary tract infections, or skin infections might be signs of diabetes.
9. Increased Hunger
While excessive hunger is often associated with low blood sugar, it can also be a sign of diabetes. When your cells can’t access glucose, they signal your brain to increase hunger as a way to acquire more energy.
10. Darkened Skin Patches
Acanthosis nigricans is a condition characterized by dark, thickened skin patches, often appearing in the neck, armpits, or groin areas. It’s more common in people with insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes…CONTINUE READING>>
