Diabetes impacts millions of Americans. In a lot of people, the diagnosis is usually delayed since the condition is not serious enough to see a doctor. This could mean that diagnosis is made until it is too late. Being aware of early symptoms and knowing when to call your doctor is vital to successful diabetes management.
Early Signs of Diabetes
If you are wondering if diabetes has already affected you, it’s important to look for issues such as the following:
- Skin issues. Diabetes can cause some skin issues like dryness and itchiness. Your lips can also be parched if you have this condition. Wounds that do not heal are also a sign of diabetes. Other issues to watch out for include white skin patches inside your mouth or lip sores. Armpit discoloration is also common.
- Vision issues. Blurred vision is a common symptom of diabetes. It means that your blood sugar levels have started to accumulate. Due to the increasing viscosity of the fluid around your eyes, you can have difficulty seeing.
- Mood issues. Irritability and exhaustion are early indications of diabetes.
- Eating problems. If you have diabetes, you may feel quite hungry or thirsty. Sometimes, you may have a problem eating or swallowing if you have diabetes.
- Other health problems. Diabetes can cause increased urination, dry mouth, and constant exhaustion.
Diabetes is Not Just One Condition
The signs and symptoms you may experience depend on the kind of diabetes you are suffering from. Type 1 diabetes presents quick symptoms in young children. Thus, these symptoms can be serious once they present themselves. Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes include overwhelming confusion, frequent urination, stomach pain, excessive thirst, shortness of breath, and weakness. Insulin and fluids are often used to treat this type of diabetes.
Meanwhile, Type 2 diabetes has symptoms that do not start until you are at least 40 years old. You may gain weight gradually and experience increased thirst. Also, you may be constantly hungry and have to urinate frequently. Numbness, pain, yeast infections, and feet tingling are symptoms of this diabetes.
When to Visit a Doctor?
Both types of diabetes have different early symptoms. However, sometimes, the symptoms are not specific. Those with risk factors for this condition or have a family history of diabetes must get regular blood glucose checks. A simple blood test can diagnose diabetes. The sooner the symptoms of your condition are treated, the less likely you will develop complications.
