Diabetes is a condition that can silently damage your body over time, leading to severe complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Despite its dangers, many people are unaware of the early warning signs.
Type 1 diabetes, often diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood, is caused by an autoimmune reaction. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity and inactivity and accounts for the majority of cases.
Regardless of the type, recognizing the symptoms early can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term damage.
Here are seven signs of diabetes you should never overlook, along with tips to reduce your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Frequent Urination, Especially at Night: High blood sugar forces your kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, particularly during the night.
Unexplained Fatigue: When your body struggles to convert sugar into energy, it leaves you feeling constantly tired.
Unexpected Weight Loss: Without access to glucose for energy, the body begins breaking down fat and muscle, causing unintentional weight loss.
Genital Itching or Recurrent Yeast Infections: High sugar levels create the perfect environment for fungal growth, resulting in itching and infections.
Slow-Healing Wounds: Diabetes can impair blood circulation and immune function, making even small cuts or sores heal slowly.
Blurred Vision: Elevated blood sugar damages blood vessels in the eyes, leading to temporary or permanent vision issues.
Constant Thirst: High sugar levels draw water from tissues, causing dehydration and an unquenchable thirst.
Lesser-Known Signs
Some people with diabetes may experience additional, less obvious symptoms:
Skin Rashes or Discoloration: Conditions like bullosis diabeticorum or necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum can cause painless blisters or red, scaly patches.
Calluses on Hands: Thick, waxy skin is a common symptom in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Reducing Your Risk
While type 1 diabetes is typically autoimmune in origin, type 2 diabetes is often preventable. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a modest weight loss can make a big difference.
Adopt a Balanced Diet: Focus on vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while limiting processed and sugary foods.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity.
If you recognize these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance. Early detection and lifestyle changes can make a significant impact.
The article is based on information from Express and the Diabetes Knowledge Center.
