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Type 2 Diabetes Fatigue: Understanding Symptoms and Warning Signs

What are the common symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes. How does fatigue relate to diabetes. What causes excessive thirst in diabetics. Why do wounds heal slowly in people with diabetes. How does Type 2 Diabetes affect vision.

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Recognizing the Signs: Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms Explained

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. While the symptoms can vary from person to person, there are several common signs that may indicate the presence of this condition.

Fatigue: The Silent Indicator of Type 2 Diabetes

One of the most prevalent and often overlooked symptoms of Type 2 diabetes is fatigue. Many individuals newly diagnosed with this condition report feeling persistently tired, even after getting adequate sleep. But why does diabetes cause fatigue?

  • Inefficient energy utilization: High blood sugar levels prevent glucose from entering cells efficiently, leading to a lack of cellular energy.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuating insulin levels can affect other hormones, contributing to fatigue.
  • Inflammation: Chronic high blood sugar can cause low-grade inflammation, which may result in fatigue.

It’s important to note that while fatigue is a common symptom, it’s not exclusive to diabetes and can be caused by various other factors. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider fatigue in conjunction with other symptoms when assessing the possibility of Type 2 diabetes.

The Thirst Trap: Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination

Another telltale sign of Type 2 diabetes is an insatiable thirst accompanied by frequent urination. This condition, known as polydipsia, is directly linked to high blood sugar levels. But how exactly does this mechanism work?

When blood sugar levels are consistently high, the kidneys work overtime to filter and absorb the excess glucose. However, when the kidneys can’t keep up, this excess glucose is excreted into the urine, dragging along fluids from your tissues. This leads to dehydration, which in turn triggers thirst.

This cycle of excessive thirst and frequent urination can become a vicious loop until blood sugar levels are brought under control. If you find yourself constantly reaching for water and making frequent trips to the bathroom, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional.

A Blurry Outlook: Vision Changes in Type 2 Diabetes

Vision changes, particularly blurry vision, can be an early warning sign of Type 2 diabetes. But what causes this symptom, and how serious is it?

High blood sugar levels can affect the eyes in several ways:

  1. Lens swelling: Excess glucose can cause the lens of the eye to swell, altering its ability to focus properly.
  2. Retinal damage: Over time, high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy.
  3. Temporary refractive changes: Fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause temporary changes in vision clarity.

While temporary blurry vision may resolve as blood sugar levels stabilize, persistent vision problems should be taken seriously. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent eye damage.

The Hunger Games: Uncontrolled Appetite in Diabetes

Paradoxically, despite high blood sugar levels, many people with Type 2 diabetes experience constant hunger. This symptom, known as polyphagia, can be confusing and frustrating for those affected. But why does this happen?

The hunger experienced in Type 2 diabetes is closely linked to the body’s inability to effectively use glucose for energy. When cells can’t access the sugar in the bloodstream due to insulin resistance, they send signals to the brain indicating a need for more energy. This results in persistent hunger, regardless of how recently or how much one has eaten.

It’s important to note that giving in to this constant hunger can lead to weight gain and further complicate diabetes management. Working with a healthcare provider and a nutritionist can help develop strategies to manage hunger and maintain a balanced diet.

Slow Healing: When Wounds Linger

One of the less commonly known but significant symptoms of Type 2 diabetes is slow wound healing. This can be particularly concerning as it increases the risk of infections and complications. But what causes this delayed healing process in diabetics?

Several factors contribute to slow wound healing in Type 2 diabetes:

  • Poor circulation: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to wounds.
  • Nerve damage: Diabetes can cause neuropathy, which may delay the detection of wounds, especially on the feet.
  • Weakened immune system: Chronic high blood sugar can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections.
  • Cellular dysfunction: High glucose levels can interfere with the normal function of cells involved in the healing process.

If you notice that your cuts, scrapes, or sores are taking an unusually long time to heal, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider. Proper wound care and blood sugar management are essential to prevent serious complications.

The Insulin Connection: Understanding the Role of Insulin in Type 2 Diabetes

At the heart of Type 2 diabetes is the body’s relationship with insulin. But what exactly is insulin, and how does its dysfunction lead to the symptoms of diabetes?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that acts as a key, unlocking cells to allow glucose to enter and be used for energy. In Type 2 diabetes, one of two things happens:

  1. Insulin resistance: Cells become less responsive to insulin, requiring more insulin to achieve the same effect.
  2. Insufficient insulin production: The pancreas may not produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Both scenarios result in elevated blood glucose levels, which is the hallmark of diabetes. Understanding this mechanism helps explain many of the symptoms experienced by those with Type 2 diabetes, from fatigue to excessive thirst.

Beyond the Symptoms: Long-term Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes

While the immediate symptoms of Type 2 diabetes can be concerning, it’s the long-term complications that pose the greatest health risks. What are these complications, and how can they be prevented?

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a range of serious health issues:

  • Cardiovascular disease: Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart problems.
  • Kidney damage: Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure.
  • Nerve damage: Peripheral neuropathy can cause pain, numbness, and increase the risk of foot problems.
  • Eye damage: Diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss and blindness.
  • Skin conditions: Increased susceptibility to various skin infections and disorders.
  • Cognitive decline: Some studies suggest a link between Type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

The good news is that many of these complications can be prevented or minimized with proper diabetes management. This includes maintaining good blood sugar control, regular medical check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Diagnosing Diabetes: When to See a Doctor

Recognizing the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes is crucial, but when should you actually consult a healthcare professional? What tests are used to diagnose diabetes?

If you’re experiencing several of the symptoms mentioned above, particularly if you have risk factors for diabetes (such as being overweight or having a family history of the condition), it’s important to see a doctor. They may recommend one or more of the following tests:

  1. Fasting Plasma Glucose Test: Measures your blood sugar after an 8-hour fast.
  2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Checks your blood sugar before and 2 hours after drinking a glucose solution.
  3. Glycated Hemoglobin (A1C) Test: Provides information about your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.

Early diagnosis is key to managing Type 2 diabetes effectively and preventing complications. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re concerned about your symptoms or risk factors.

Living with Type 2 Diabetes: Management Strategies

A diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes can be overwhelming, but with proper management, many people lead full, healthy lives. What are some effective strategies for managing this condition?

Successful diabetes management typically involves a multifaceted approach:

  • Medication: This may include oral medications, insulin, or both, depending on individual needs.
  • Diet: A balanced, portion-controlled diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
  • Blood sugar monitoring: Regular checks help you understand how your body responds to food, medication, and activity.
  • Stress management: Chronic stress can affect blood sugar levels, so stress reduction techniques can be beneficial.
  • Regular check-ups: Routine visits to your healthcare provider help catch and address any issues early.

Remember, diabetes management is a journey, and it may take time to find the right balance. Working closely with your healthcare team can help you develop a personalized plan that works for you.

The Role of Lifestyle in Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Management

While some risk factors for Type 2 diabetes, such as genetics and age, are beyond our control, lifestyle choices play a significant role in both prevention and management of the condition. How can lifestyle modifications impact diabetes risk and progression?

Several key lifestyle factors can influence Type 2 diabetes:

  1. Diet: A diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce diabetes risk.
  2. Physical activity: Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps maintain a healthy weight.
  3. Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance.
  4. Sleep: Adequate, quality sleep is important for metabolic health and can impact blood sugar control.
  5. Stress management: Chronic stress can affect hormones that influence blood sugar levels.

For those already diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, these lifestyle factors remain important in managing the condition and preventing complications. Even small changes can have significant impacts over time.

The Future of Diabetes Care: Emerging Treatments and Technologies

As our understanding of diabetes grows, so do the treatment options and technologies available to manage the condition. What exciting developments are on the horizon for diabetes care?

Several promising areas of research and development include:

  • Artificial pancreas systems: These closed-loop systems automatically monitor blood glucose and deliver insulin as needed.
  • Gene therapy: Researchers are exploring ways to modify genes to improve insulin production or sensitivity.
  • Smart insulin: This glucose-responsive insulin would activate only when blood sugar levels are high.
  • Stem cell therapies: These could potentially regenerate insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  • Gut microbiome interventions: Modifying gut bacteria may help improve metabolic health and insulin sensitivity.

While many of these treatments are still in development, they offer hope for improved diabetes management in the future. In the meantime, current treatments and lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of effective diabetes care.

The Psychological Impact of Type 2 Diabetes

Living with a chronic condition like Type 2 diabetes can have significant psychological effects. How does diabetes impact mental health, and what support is available?

The psychological challenges of diabetes can include:

  • Diabetes distress: Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of managing the condition.
  • Depression and anxiety: These are more common in people with diabetes than in the general population.
  • Eating disorders: The focus on diet can sometimes lead to unhealthy relationships with food.
  • Fear of complications: Worry about potential long-term health issues can cause significant stress.

It’s important to recognize that these psychological effects are common and that support is available. This may include counseling, support groups, or working with a mental health professional who specializes in chronic illness. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as managing your physical symptoms in diabetes care.

Fatigue and Other Signs You May Have Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It affects how your body processes insulin. Unlike type 1, which has a genetic component, type 2 diabetes can be brought by lifestyle choices. Type 2 diabetes symptoms vary from person to person. 

There are many symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Constantly feeling tired is a common symptom, but here are additional signs of type 2 diabetes that you should monitor. 

Fatigue/Tiredness

As mentioned previously, your energy levels may decrease once you develop type 2 diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Foundation, individuals newly diagnosed with type 2 report feeling fatigued. This fatigue is a result of inadequate amounts of sugar moving from the blood into the cells. 

Blood sugar levels are always high when you have type 2 diabetes, but the sugar has a difficult time entering the cells. This causes the cells to work with less efficiency because they do not have the proper amount of energy. Because of this, a person with type 2 diabetes may feel tired all the time. 

Excessive Thirstiness 

People with type 2 diabetes often feel parched. This abnormal thirst is known as polydipsia and comes from too much sugar in your bloodstream. Your kidneys, a key part of the urinary system, are forced to work harder to rid your body of the extra sugar. This causes frequent urination, which is another early warning sign that you have type 2 diabetes. 

When you urinate all the time, your body loses a significant amount of water. To make up for the water loss, you feel a strong need to hydrate constantly. The urine and thirst cycle can become routine until blood sugar levels reach an acceptable balance. 

Blurry Vision

Blurry vision may be a sign that you have type 2 diabetes. Eye damage is one of the more common type 2 diabetes symptoms. Continuously high blood sugar levels will eventually cause water in the body to be sucked into the lens of the eye, which is an essential part of the human eye that focuses light and images into the rest of the eye. Small blood vessels in the eye may also be damaged. 

If you notice this symptom, you should see a doctor immediately. Permanent eye damage can occur if this issue is not resolved quickly. 

Constant Hunger

Along with chronic thirst, people with type 2 diabetes may feel hungry all the time. When cells cannot access the sugar from the bloodstream, it causes the cells to lose energy. To build up some energy, someone with type 2 may be perpetually hungry until blood sugar levels are back to normal. 

It does not matter how much or how recently you have eaten. If you have type 2 diabetes, you will often feel hungry because you are not getting enough energy from the food you have already eaten. 

Your Wounds Take a Long Time to Heal

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause nerve cells to work less efficiently. This damage leads to subpar blood circulation, which delays the blood from reaching and healing wounds or sores. The smallest of cuts and scrapes can take many days or even weeks to heal. 

Any of these signs can indicate that you may have developed type 2 diabetes. BASS Medical Group has a team of medical professionals with years of experience diagnosing type 2 diabetes. We can provide the proper treatment to keep your blood sugar levels stable. For more information about signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes, visit our website or call us at (925) 350-4044.

Tiredness and Diabetes

Many people with diabetes will describe themselves as feeling tired, lethargic or fatigued at times.

It could be a result of stress, hard work or a lack of a decent night’s sleep but it could also be related to having too high or too low blood glucose levels.

Tiredness as a symptom of diabetes

Regular tiredness, particularly tiredness following meals, is a common symptom of diabetes.

  • Read more on the symptoms of diabetes

What causes people with diabetes to be tired?

Two common reasons for tiredness or lethargy are having too high or too low blood sugar levels.

In both cases, the tiredness is the result of having an imbalance between one’s level of blood glucose and the amount or effectiveness of circulating insulin.

If you feel tired during the day, despite having slept well, it could be a result of either high or low sugar levels.

It is best to test your blood glucose levels to see whether the tiredness is indeed a result of having high or low sugar levels.

This is particularly important for people on insulin.

  • Read about the recommended blood glucose levels ranges

Tiredness and high blood sugar levels

Blood glucose levels go high when there is either insufficient insulin (typically in the case of type 1 diabetes ) or the insulin is not working effectively enough (typically in type 2 diabetes).

To provide us with energy, insulin is needed to transport glucose from blood into our cells to be used for energy.

When there is not enough insulin, or the insulin isn’t working effectively, it means the sugar in our blood cannot get into our cells and therefore our cells do not receive the energy they need. As a result, we feel tired.

Managing tiredness and high blood sugar after meals

If tiredness is accompanied by high blood glucose levels after meals, it can indicate one or more of the following:

  • The carbohydrate you are eating is too quick acting for you medication to cope with
  • You are eating too much carbohydrate for your medication/dosage
  • Your medication/dosage is not strong enough

You should only change your medication dosage if your doctor has approved you to.

Putting on weight is a common indication that one’s insulin levels are too high. People who are overweight and experiencing tiredness as a result of high blood glucose levels may be able to combat tiredness by reducing their carbohydrate intake.

A doctor or dietitian should be able to help you with how to reduce your blood glucose levels whilst achieving a healthy weight.

Tiredness and hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels)

When blood glucose levels are low the body is in a similar position as a car that has run out of fuel; unless you are able to add more fuel, the car will quickly come to a juddering halt.

Similarly, when blood glucose levels are low, you need to take in more carbohydrate to provide your body with the energy your body needs.

If you are regularly experiencing low blood sugar levels, your dosage of medication may be too high.

For people on insulin, hypoglycemia can also occur if insulin is injected (or bolused) too soon before eating.

Tiredness upon waking

If tiredness occurs upon waking after a full night’s sleep, it can also be a result of too high or to low blood sugar levels overnight.

Tiredness accompanied by a headache in the morning can often be a sign of an overnight hypo in people taking insulin.

Managing morning tiredness

If you are regularly feeling tired in the morning, despite having had a full night’s sleep, it’s worth testing your blood sugar upon waking to see if your tiredness is related to your blood glucose

Some people may also wish to wake during the night to test their blood glucose levels to see if they’re experiencing high or low blood sugar overnight.

Blood sugar levels can fluctuate overnight and your doctor or diabetes specialist should be able to advise if your sugar levels are causing any problems.

what is it, symptoms, diagnosis, complications

Diabetes mellitus: what is it, symptoms, diagnosis, complications

What is diabetes
Symptoms
Consequences
Diagnostics

CHECK YOURSELF

Constant fatigue that does not go away even after recovery
sleep and wake patterns is
an alarming symptom of certain diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Constant
fatigue
reduces the activity and performance of a person, worsening his well-being.

Finally, constant fatigue and weakness accompany
dysfunction of the kidneys.

CHECK YOURSELF

Diabetes mellitus in Russia

What is diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases that occur for various reasons, but
its main symptom is an increase in the level of glucose – or sugar – in the blood.

When there is a lack of insulin, glucose cannot enter the cell,
due to which its level in the blood rises. Most likely it is diabetes.

Without insulin, our cells cannot use glucose for themselves.
energy, glucose remains in the blood, where it circulates in excess and can cause serious
complications.

Why it is impossible to live with diabetes without treatment

The longer elevated blood glucose levels persist without proper treatment of the disease, the
more complications develop.

Some of these may be life threatening4.

Blindness5

– partial loss of vision or total blindness

Leg amputation6

– lower extremity involvement

– pain when walking

– gangrene and resulting amputation 900 03

Heart attack7

– atherosclerosis

– ischemic disease

– angina pectoris and heart attack

Stroke8

– impairment of attention, thinking and speech

– cerebrovascular insufficiency

– High risk of cerebral stroke

Kidney failure9

– Kidney transplant

Damage to the nervous system10

– Pain and numbness of the limbs

– Problems with the digestive system, blood vessels, heart

900 02 Blindness5

– partial loss of vision or complete blindness

Leg amputation6

– lower extremity involvement

– pain when walking

– gangrene and resulting amputation

Heart attack7

– Atherosclerosis

– Ischemic disease

– Angina pectoris and heart attack

Stroke8

– Impairment of attention, thinking and speech

– Brain failure blood circulation

– high risk of cerebral stroke

Renal failure9

– kidney transplant

Damage to the nervous system10

– pain and numbness of the limbs

– problems with the digestive system, blood vessels, heart

All these complications can be avoided by consulting a doctor in time!

BOOK A DOCTOR

The main symptoms of type 2 diabetes11

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) outlines the main
type 2 diabetes symptoms

Frequent urination

Frequent urination11

This symptom may be a sign of diabetes.

If you notice the appearance of frequent and profuse urination, this is an occasion to visit
endocrinologist for diagnosis.

The normal daily volume of urine of a healthy person is 1.5-2 liters.

Polyuria – excretion of more than 2-3 liters of urine per day. At the same time, the frequency also increases.
urination, and one-time volume of urine.

Other possible causes include: taking diuretics, taking
large amounts of water or alcohol intake, as well as liquids containing caffeine, including
number of energy drinks.

Fact

In diabetes, the volume of urine can be up to 10
liters per day. If profuse urination continues for a long time and the cause
its unclear, you should consult a doctor1.

Fact

In diabetes, the volume of urine can be up to 10
liters per day. If profuse urination continues for a long time and the cause
its unclear, you should consult a doctor1.

Blurry vision

Blurry vision11

What causes blurry or fuzzy vision? This could be one of
symptoms of diabetes.

Symptoms of visual impairment in diabetes mellitus may include:

• gradual deterioration of vision;

• sudden loss of vision;

• spots, threads, or other obscurations that float in your field of vision;

• blurry or spotty vision;

• pain in the eyes.

Most often, in diabetes mellitus, the vessels of the retina are affected, which is called
diabetic retinopathy. It is also possible to develop glaucoma and other vision pathologies.

Fact

The prevalence of retinopathy in diabetes is 20.8% and increases with
disease progression.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of new cases of blindness among
adults aged 20-74 in developed countries15.

Fact

The prevalence of retinopathy in diabetes is 20.8% and increases with
disease progression.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of new cases of blindness among
adults aged 20-74 in developed countries15.

Intense thirst

Intense thirst11

Thirst is an alarming symptom that should not be ignored.

When developing diabetes, a person who is thirsty drinks from 2 to 6 liters (10-30 glasses)
liquids per day. One of the constant companions of the symptom of thirst is severe dryness.
in the mouth.

If you experience persistent thirst, including at night,
or you have other possible manifestations of diabetes, make an appointment with your doctor
to rule out diabetes.

Fact

Some diabetic patients
can drink 10 or more liters of fluid per day.

Fact

Some diabetic patients
can drink 10 or more liters of fluid per day.

Slow wound healing

Slow wound healing11

If you began to notice long-term non-healing wounds, scratches, sores, do not
ignore this symptom.

There can be several reasons, and one of them is the manifestations of diabetes mellitus. for a long time
non-healing wounds can become part of the so-called diabetic foot syndrome.

Fact

Non-healing wounds in advanced cases
cause gangrene and amputation. That is why it is so important to turn
attention to the symptom and consult a specialist.

Fact

Non-healing wounds in advanced cases
cause gangrene and amputation. That is why it is so important to turn
attention to the symptom and consult a specialist.

Permanent fatigue

Permanent fatigue11

In diabetes mellitus, the following situation arises: glucose seems to be enough, and tissues
the whole body experience starvation. Insulin deficiency and development of resistance
cell receptors to it leads to the fact that glucose is not supplied in the proper
tissue concentration.

The result of these disorders is that the body does not have enough energy to
maintaining all vital processes at the required level. Which leads to
the onset and progression of fatigue.

Numbness, pain in limbs

Numbness, pain in limbs11

In a situation where there is a loss of sensation or numbness of the limbs, it is important
remember that the likely cause of this may be diabetes mellitus.

One of the serious and most common complications of diabetes is
diabetic polyneuropathy (hereinafter referred to as DPN). One third of all complications of diabetes occur in
share of DPN. And after 25 years from the onset of the disease, DPN affects already 50% of all those with poor
diabetes compensation.

Sometimes people with DPN become patients in burn centers. Due to malnutrition of tissues
they feel cold and try to warm their feet in every way. They are on the move
heaters, heaters. As a result of decreased sensitivity in DPN, there is no
normal reaction to thermal stimuli. The person does not notice how
burn. It is recommended to warm the feet only with warm socks.

Fact

When glucose is normalized and maintained at
normal level, the development of polyneuropathy may stop. That’s why timing is so important.
identify diabetes mellitus and start treatment13.

Fact

When glucose is normalized and maintained at
normal level, the development of polyneuropathy may stop. That’s why timing is so important.
identify diabetes mellitus and start treatment13.

Persistent hunger

Persistent hunger11

Most people love to eat, and therefore the feeling of constant hunger rarely causes
think about whether everything is in order with health.

How to distinguish hunger caused by some disease from normal physiological?

The physiological feeling of hunger stops after a normal meal.

Hunger due to disease is uncontrollable
food intake and rapid, excessive food intake.

Constant hunger can be a symptom of diabetes, so take care
him as seriously as possible.

Fact

If you often feel persistent,
persistent hunger after a normal meal or other symptoms of sugar
diabetes, see your doctor.

Fact

If you often feel persistent,
persistent hunger after a normal meal or other symptoms of sugar
diabetes, see your doctor.

Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss11

The body weight of an adult in the absence of pathology is a value relative to
constant.

But if you notice that within a few months you have inexplicably begun to lose weight without
increased physical activity or special diets,
then such weight loss should not be rejoiced. One of the common causes of unintentional
weight loss in a few months by 5% of the initial body weight or more,
could be type 2 diabetes. The consequences of this are dangerous and fraught with development
ketoacidosis, malnutrition, and muscle atrophy with loss of muscle tone and the possibility
move fully.

To prevent this, you need to see a doctor.

Early diagnosis is the key to diabetes control4

Dizziness

Dry mucous membranes

Itching and dry skin, brittle nails

Nausea, vomiting

Itching in the genital area

Dizziness

Dryness of mucous membranes

Itching and dry skin, brittle nails

Nausea, vomiting

Itching in the genital area

Dizziness

Dryness of mucous membranes

Itching and dry skin, brittle nails

Nausea, vomiting

Itching in the genital area

However, not all people have these symptoms pronounced, so they remain
unnoticed and lead to late
diagnosis and treatment of diabetes1

If you have at least one of the symptoms, get a diagnosis

BOOK A DOCTOR

Do you know your blood glucose level?

In most cases, the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is made only after 4-7 years from
disease onset 16

Disease progression without diagnosis

living with elevated blood glucose levels. Without proper treatment
this leads to the development of complications of diabetes.

Complications can be prevented by early detection and
adherence to recommendations for keeping blood glucose under control

Risk factors17

Those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes should monitor their blood glucose levels.

These include those who:

physically inactive

suffer from cardiovascular diseases

suffer from arterial hypertension

overweight or obese people

have relatives with diabetes mellitus

have vision problems

90 002 had gestational diabetes during pregnancy

women who gave birth to a child weighing more than 4 kg

men and women over 45

have high cholesterol

Show more

Have you noticed these symptoms in yourself?

Frequent urination

Blurry vision

Extreme thirst

Prolonged healing of wounds

Constant fatigue walking hunger

unexplained weight loss

Please note that you have highlighted 0 symptoms out of 8
basic.

This is a serious reason to consult a specialist.

Make an appointment with a doctor

You can take a detailed test for the presence of risk factors for diabetes you can
Here

Sources

1

Diabetes.co.uk [Electronic resource]: [website]. – Electron. Dan. –
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2

Ivan I. Dedov, Marina V. Shestakova, Olga K. Vikulova. Epidemiology
of diabetes mellitus in Russian Federation: clinical and statistical report according to the
federal diabetes registry. Diabetes mellitus. 2017;20(1):13

3

Russian News Agency [Electronic resource] : Elektron.
article // Expert: the incidence of diabetes in the Russian Federation overtakes the growth of obesity //
http://tass.ru/obschestvo/4258790

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Dedov I. I. Diabetes mellitus / Dedov I.I., Shestakova M.V. – Moscow:
Universum Publishing, 2003

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Diabetic retinopathy [Electronic resource]: [Website] – Electronic data. –
Access mode: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diabetic-retinopathy/. – Zagl. from the screen (Last
accessed: 01.12.2017)

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abetesMatters/Peripheral-Artery-Disease Diabetes_UCM_313866_Article.jsp#.Wh–_W997IU. – Zagl. With
screen (Last access: 12/01/2017)

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British Heart Foundation [Electronic resource]: [Website] –
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Title from the screen (Last access: 12/01/2017)

8

Demidova T. Yu. Vascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus
edge of glycemic control. Diabetes mellitus, 3/2010: pp. 111-116

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National Kidney Foundation [Electronic resource]: [Website] –
Electronic data – Access mode: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/diabetes. – Zagl. from the screen
(Last access: 12/01/2017)

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Mayoclinic [Electronic resource]: [Website] – Electronic data. – Mode
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American Diabetes Association [Electronic resource]: [website]. –
Electron. Dan. – Access mode: http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/symptoms/ – Head. With
screen. (Last accessed: 11/24/2017)

12

Bregovskiy V.B., Khramilin V.N., Demidova I.Yu., Strokov I.A., Guryeva
I.V. Diabetic distal polyneuropathy review of current guidelines. Annals of Clinical
and Experimental Neurology, Vol. 9, No. 1-2015, p.60-68

13

Diabetic polyneuropathy. Overview of modern
recommendations. RMZH No. 32 dated 11/27/2012 p. 1580

14

O.V. Maslova, Yu.I. Suntsov, L.L. Bolotskaya, T.M. Dear, V.K.
Alexandrova. Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and cataracts in adults
diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2. / Diabetes mellitus, No. 3, 2008, p.12-15

15

Sharon DS, Emily C, Elia JD et al. Diabetic Retinopathy: A Position
Statement by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care 2017 Mar; 40(3): 412-418.
https://doi.org/10.2337/dc16-2641

16

Maureen IH, Ronald K, Tim AW, Matthew WK. Onset of NIDDM occurs at
Least 4–7 yr Before Clinical Diagnosis. Diabetes Care 1992 Jul; 15(7): 815-
819.​​https://doi.org/10.2337/diacare.15.7. 815

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Diabetes School [Electronic resource]: [website]. – Electron. Dan. –
Access mode: https://shkoladiabeta.ru/diabet/factors/. – Zagl. from the screen.

SARU.DIA.18.05.0884

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The Ten Early Signs of Diabetes

Because the symptoms of diabetes can go unnoticed for a long time, it is called the silent killer. Detection of the disease at an early stage and timely treatment started help prevent numerous severe complications that may be associated with damage to the nervous system, kidneys, eyes, disorders in the peripheral blood supply, as well as complications during pregnancy.

Do not forget about the prevention of diabetes, which involves, in particular, lifestyle changes. You should stop smoking, do not forget about physical activity, and a balanced healthy diet is also necessary. Here are ten of the top early signs of diabetes to watch out for.

№1 Excessive, frequent urination

One of the earliest symptoms of diabetes is polyuria.

If you notice frequent urination and a significant increase in urine volume (especially at night), this is a serious signal to contact a general practitioner or endocrinologist.

The amount of glucose in the blood increases due to slower absorption. As a result, the work of the kidneys is enhanced and they “try” to excrete excess glucose into the urine. Water, instead of being absorbed by the body, is strongly excreted from it.

No. 2 Thirst

If you constantly experience a feeling of thirst that is not quenched by water, consult a doctor without delay!

Frequent urination leads to significant fluid loss in the body.

Please note that when you quench your thirst with sweet drinks, the blood sugar level rises, and, consequently, thirst increases.

№3 Insatiable hunger

Due to disturbed metabolic processes in the body, a person may constantly experience a feeling of hunger, as the cells stop absorbing glucose, which is the “fuel” for the cells.

The body has to look for alternative sources of energy. At the same time, even the consumption of a large amount of food is not able to saturate a person. He fails to satisfy his hunger, because overeating further increases blood sugar levels.

In such a situation, the visit to the endocrinologist should not be postponed.

№4 Recurrent infection

It turned out that a person, with a high level of sugar, becomes especially susceptible to infections of various kinds. Most often it can be skin diseases and diseases of the urogenital area.

If you have recurring inflammatory diseases, you need to have your glucose tested.

№5 Long-term healing wounds

High glucose levels lead to constriction of blood vessels and thickening of artery walls, which impairs blood supply to tissues, their saturation with oxygen and nutrients. As a result, the body takes longer to heal cuts, wounds, and even ordinary scratches.

№6 Unexplained weight loss or gain

Both excess weight and weight loss without specific reasons can also be signs of developing diabetes.

Weight loss in this case will be due either to the inability to absorb glucose, or excessive loss of water due to frequent urination. The body compensates for the lack of insulin with the protein contained in the muscles. As a rule, in such a situation, people lose weight dramatically. Weight gain also occurs due to insulin resistance.

№7 Stinging, burning, numbness

Similar sensory disturbances also occur in diabetes mellitus. The fact is that the deterioration of blood supply leads to a change in the conductivity of nerve impulses, which in the future can cause dangerous damage to the nervous system, for example, peripheral diabetic neuropathy.

№8 Muscle weakness and chronic fatigue

One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is chronic fatigue. The failure of insulin to “deliver” glucose to cells, which excludes it from energy metabolism and the body does not receive the calories it needs in the right amount.

In addition, insufficient blood circulation deprives the cells of a complete set of nutrients and oxygen. The result is constant weakness and fatigue even with a normal amount of sleep.

№9 Dry skin and itching

Increased blood glucose level provokes dysfunction of the sweat and sebaceous glands. Human skin becomes sensitive and dry. Due to the reduction of the protective barrier of the skin, toxins, allergens and infections easily penetrate the skin. In most cases, itching is the result of dry skin or a fungal infection. In some cases, dark spots appear on the skin, with diabetes (in the armpits, on the neck and in the groin area).

If you regularly experience burning or itching in various parts of the body, as well as dry skin (despite moisturizing), you need to consult a specialist.