Diabetes is an illness that can pass by silently for many years. It arises due to an increase in the glucose in the blood, whether this be because the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to process it or because the body has a resistance to this substance.
Its manifestations show up gradually and are often confused with other common illnesses.
The problem with this is that, when it is left to progress, it can interfere in the functioning of our vital organs like the kidneys, heart and brain.
This is why, although some of its manifestations can seem normal, it is important to pay attention to any sign that causes suspicion.
10 Initial Diabetes Symptoms You Should Know
In this article we want to share ten initial diabetes symptoms so that you can bear them in mind from now on.
1. Sensation of fatigue
The lack of insulin, or resistance to it, prevents the cells absorbing sufficient glucose to give the body the energy it needs for its functions.
This results in a strong sensation of physical and mental fatigue which often goes on until the person rests.
Factors such as excess weight and obesity, dehydration and blood pressure imbalances are also hidden behind this symptom.
2. Sleep disorders
Poor control of the sugar levels in the blood is related to the main sleep disorders and frequent tiredness.
People with type 2 diabetes tend to have trouble getting to sleep, or suffer some kind of interruptions during their period of rest.
Equally, it is essential to mention that there is more chance of suffering from this illness if you sleep for less than 6 hours a night.
3. Dry mouth and sensation of thirst
Glucose is one of the main “fuels” of our body. However, when it is not used well, it is one of the causes of dehydration.
This condition affects the activity of the cells of the whole body and in turn affects the production of saliva and causes dryness on the tongue and thirst.
4. Frequent urination
Excess glucose in the blood makes the kidneys work double to be able to filter it, and so, because they are overloaded, the need to go to the bathroom increases.
This substance prevents toxins from being filtered properly and interferes in the work of the urinary system.
5. Urinary infections
Another common manifestation of diabetes is prolonged and frequent urinary infections. These happen because the increase of glucose in the blood weakens the immune system.
As a consequence, the production of antibodies reduces and the body is exposed to attacks from viruses, bacteria and fungi.
6. Slow healing of wounds
Surface wounds or skin ulcers that take too long to heal, or that don’t heal, are a clear sign of the accumulation of glucose in the blood.
Diabetes patients should be careful of skin wounds because, without the necessary control, they can cause complications that require medical care.
7. Foot problems
The feet are one of the parts of the body that can most clearly manifest signs of diabetes. They tend to consist of circulatory problems and liquid retention.
Sometimes, when diabetes gets out of control, the feet suffer damage to the nerve endings which manifests as numbness and constant pins and needles.
8. Blurry vision
The dehydration of the body as a consequence of the accumulation of glucose can lead to difficulties with vision.
The reduction in fluids affects the lenses of the eyes and affects their ability to focus, which manifests as blurry vision.
9. Food anxiety
When glucose does not adequately penetrate the cells, it reduces the “fuel” that makes all the organs of the body work.
This situation causes confusion for the body, and so it sends signals to obtain more sources of energy through food.
This means that, until the accumulation of sugar is under control, it is inevitable to feel anxiety to eat time after time.
10. Dry skin
We can also suspect diabetes by observing the state of the skin. In these patients, certain levels of dryness tend to be seen. And these are due to the circulatory problems and the dehydration associated with them.
Of course, it is necessary to bear in mind the other initial diabetes symptoms. Because, this symptom can arise as a result of many other conditions.
Do you recognize several of the above-mentioned initial diabetes symptoms? Are you at risk of diabetes? Before the illness gets the better of you, consult your doctor to receive a diagnosis and timely treatment.
Via: MayoClinic | ReadersDigest | WebMD
