(What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes)
Diabetes refers to a deficiency of the hormone insulin, reduced insulin effectiveness, or a combination of both. Simply put, this physical condition, where blood sugar levels are consistently higher than normal, is called diabetes. Diabetes can be managed through a balanced diet, physical exercise, and in some cases, medication. However, the disease must be identified first, as many diabetes patients do not even know they are affected.
This is why the disease is called a ‘silent killer.’ It progresses without the patient’s knowledge and can lead to death if not properly managed. The Times of India reported, “Problems like high blood pressure and heart disease are often associated with this disease.” If you can diagnose diabetes in its early stages, it is possible to take preventive measures against it.
Therefore, let’s explore the symptoms of diabetes in detail.
Frequent Urination
A healthy person typically urinates 6-7 times a day. Depending on the environment or circumstances, 4-10 times is also considered normal. If you find yourself urinating more often, consult a doctor. Frequent urination is one of the key symptoms of diabetes. When blood sugar levels rise, the kidneys work to remove the excess sugar through urine, leading to more frequent urination. This also increases thirst.
Feeling Tired
If you feel unusually tired throughout the day despite getting adequate sleep, seek medical advice. This is another common symptom of diabetes. These issues arise because the body cannot properly manage its sugar levels.
Increased Hunger
A significant increase in appetite is one of the primary symptoms of diabetes. When insulin levels drop, the body cannot effectively use sugar for energy. The body requires sugar for fuel, and when it can’t get it, energy levels fall. This triggers an increased demand for calories, leading to excessive hunger.
Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can affect your eyes. It can cause the lens of the eye to swell and change shape, which may result in a sudden onset of blurred vision.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight unexpectedly without any specific changes to your diet or exercise routine is another major sign of diabetes. If you lose approximately 10 to 20 pounds over two to three months, it is essential to consult a doctor and get tested for diabetes.
Slow-Healing Wounds
If cuts, scrapes, or other wounds on your body take an unusually long time to heal, it may be considered an early sign of diabetes. An imbalance in blood sugar can lead to frequent infections. During this time, the immune system is weakened, increasing the risk of infection.
Additionally, other signs considered symptoms of diabetes include: dry, rough, or itchy skin; feeling irritable; waking up at night due to urination; nausea; occasional headaches; increased cravings for sugary foods; and patches of dark skin.
Gestational Diabetes
Many women are unsure when to get tested for diabetes during pregnancy. A diabetes test should be done soon after confirming the pregnancy. Additionally, another test is needed between the 24th and 28th weeks of gestation. Women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes should also be tested again six to twelve weeks after giving birth.
Diabetes in Children
Children in the following groups should definitely be tested for diabetes: those who are overweight; those with a family history (parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles, siblings) of diabetes; those showing signs of reduced insulin effectiveness (insulin resistance); those who had a low birth weight; and children whose mothers had gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Causes of Diabetes
Any of us can develop diabetes at any age. However, the following groups of people have a higher probability of developing the condition.
- Genetics: People with a family history of diabetes, especially if parents or close blood relatives have it.
- Obesity and Inactivity: Individuals who are very overweight or obese, particularly those who do not engage in exercise or physical labor.
- Medication: People who have been taking cortisol-like medications for a long time.
- Pregnancy History: Women who had gestational diabetes or who have given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.
- Other Conditions: Those who have high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
In short: The risk of diabetes is higher for: overweight individuals, those who are not physically active, people with a family history (parents, siblings) of diabetes, and patients with high blood pressure. This also includes those with HDL cholesterol below 35 and triglycerides above 250, women who were diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and individuals with heart disease.
Summary
Having just one of the symptoms mentioned above does not definitively mean you have diabetes. However, you should consult a doctor and get tested. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, there is no need to panic. A diabetic patient can remain healthy by following the correct guidelines. The real danger lies in the disease going undiagnosed. In such cases, it can cause serious harm to the patient without their knowledge, potentially even leading to death.
After extensive research, scientists have observed that the number of diabetic patients is increasing manifold due to rapid urbanization, changes in diet and lifestyle, and constant mental stress. Therefore, stay aware and try to lead a disciplined life.
