Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce sufficient insulin or does not respond to insulin. There are two categories of diabetes: Type 1 and 2. With Type 1 Diabetes, the patient’s body is not able to create insulin. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body is resistant to insulin. Both diabetes forms can result in chronically high blood sugar levels, which in turn can cause several complications. Among the two, type 2 diabetes is the more common form and is caused by factors including obesity, physical inactivity, and family history. This article discusses some of the warning signs for Type 2 diabetes.
This is known to be among the first signs of Type 2 diabetes. As the blood sugar level rises, the kidneys excrete the extra sugar from the blood, resulting in frequent urination.
Since a diabetic person has to urinate frequently to remove the extra sugar from the body, it leads to dehydration. You might also feel thirstier than you usually do.
Some people experience unexpected weight loss caused by the sugar that stays in the blood. The sugar in the blood begins burning fat and muscle, which leads to weight loss. Also, unexplained weight loss can result from frequent urination.
Constantly feeling hungry is one of the most challenging parts of being diabetic. Diabetes often leads to polyphagia, where an individual can feel hungry even after they have eaten recently.
This is a common symptom for people with Type 2 diabetes. Prediabetic patients can also suffer from foot pain and numbness. It is caused by increased blood sugar levels which impact your blood circulation and damage your body’s nerves, causing a tingling or numb sensation in your limbs.
Blurred vision is caused by a sudden increase in blood sugar level that affects the blood vessels of the eyes for patients with unmanaged diabetes. It's best to consult an eye specialist in these situations since diabetes can lead to blindness if it is not managed.
Since the high sugar blood levels narrow the blood vessels, it slows blood circulation and restricts nutrients and oxygen from reaching the wound. Diabetic patients might require more time to recover from wounds.
Related: What Is the Best Diet for Type 2 Diabetes Patients?
Do not delay seeking medical help if you think you have any of the signs you have diabetes. Diabetes can easily be diagnosed. All it takes is a simple blood test to determine if you have the disease. If detected, it’s best to start early treatment to ensure that the disease can be controlled and doesn’t damage your health.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or suspect you have diabetes, contact MI Express Primary Care in Ann Arbor & Canton, MI today. By managing your diabetes, you will be able to lead a normal, healthy life. We’ll develop a treatment plan consisting of lifestyle changes and medication to manage your condition and prevent it from progressing.