The type 2 diabetes is a common disease of the modern age. It presents initially with few symptoms, which can be easily missed. One in three people who have it does not even know it. Because diabetes is a serious disease that can cause dangerous complications – including cardiovascular and neurological damage – it is important to detect it early.
With the right diet, exercise regimen and, if necessary, medications, diabetes can be kept under control , and the person can continue to live a full life. Learn about some of the early warning signs of diabetes so you can act on it and protect your health.
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Warning signs of diabetes.
In 2013, more than 382 million people around the world had diabetes, and 90% of them had type 2 diabetes. This is a metabolic disease, characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood.
The production of insulin – a pancreatic hormone that is normally responsible for balancing blood sugar levels – is reduced or cells do not respond to it correctly. The following symptoms develop as a result of this:
1. Frequent urination (polyuria).
If you notice that you have to urinate more frequently, and you wake up during the night (sometimes several times) to empty your bladder, this could be a warning sign. The kidneys begin to work harder to get rid of excess glucose from the blood.
2. Excessive thirst (polydipsia).
This symptom is linked to the previous one. As you lose more fluids, your body will try to replace it, hence the constant urge to drink.
3. Increased hunger (polyphagia).
Due to extreme low blood sugar levels, the body develops a sudden urge to eat. Cells don’t get enough glucose, so they crave.
4. Dry mouth.
Experiencing a lack of moisture in your mouth can be somewhat unpleasant and dangerous. Dry mouth can become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause various oral and dental problems. Diseases of the gums is a known complication of diabetes.
5. Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
Since insulin cannot get glucose into the cells, the body reacts as if it were starving and begins to use protein from the muscles. Losing inexplicable and rapid weight (5 to 9 kilos in more than a couple of months) is not healthy and requires further research. On the other hand, increased consumption of sugary foods can lead to weight gain.
6. Fatigue.
Excessive tiredness or fatigue can develop when the body constantly compensates for the lack of glucose in the cells. It also doesn’t help if your sleep is interrupted by the urge to urinate. People begin to experience lower energy levels and chronically do not feel well. It is not uncommon for them to also feel irritable and moody.