Am I feeling diabetes symptoms?

A review article by

Dr Sunil Kumar  Feel Free to Connet on Linkedin 

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. In both cases, the body has difficulty either producing or using insulin effectively, which leads to high blood sugar levels. Here are the symptoms of diabetes in detail:

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria): One of the hallmark symptoms of diabetes is frequent urination. High blood sugar levels force the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb excess sugar, leading to increased urine production. This can result in more frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night.
2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): As a consequence of frequent urination, the body loses more water, leading to dehydration. This triggers an increased sensation of thirst, causing individuals with diabetes to drink more water than usual.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss: People with diabetes may experience unexplained weight loss, particularly in type 1 diabetes. When the body cannot use glucose properly, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss despite an increase in appetite.
4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): Even though individuals with diabetes may lose weight, they often experience increased hunger. The body’s cells are not receiving enough glucose, leading to constant feelings of hunger.
5. Fatigue and Weakness: High blood sugar levels and the inability to use glucose for energy can lead to feelings of fatigue and weakness. The cells are starved of the energy they need to function properly.
6. Blurry Vision: Elevated blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of the eyes, leading to changes in the shape of the lenses and resulting in blurred vision.
7. Slow Healing of Wounds: Diabetes can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds due to poor circulation and reduced immune function.
8. Frequent Infections: High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making individuals with diabetes more susceptible to infections, particularly urinary tract infections, skin infections, and yeast infections.
9. Numbness and Tingling in Extremities: Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy. This can cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, primarily in the feet and hands.
10. Dry Skin and Itching: Diabetes can cause dry skin due to dehydration, and the skin may become itchy and prone to infections.

It’s essential to note that the symptoms mentioned above can vary in severity and may be more prominent in some individuals than in others. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management. Early detection and appropriate treatment can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.