Telltale Signs That You Could Be Suffering From Diabetes
What Is Diabetes?
The cells of the body use glucose (a type of sugar) as an easily accessible fuel source for energy. When you have Diabetes, there is too much glucose in the bloodstream for long periods. A high blood glucose level can damage blood vessels, interfering with your body’s ability to supply blood and nutrients to your tissue and organs. Although Diabetes can be dangerous if left untreated, with early detection it is manageable. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these tell-tale signs with increased frequency, be sure to visit your health care practitioner for a fasting glucose test.
Unusual Weight-Loss And Chronic Fatigue
If you are experiencing rapid weight-loss without any changes to your diet or exercise routine, this might be a sign that you have Type 1 Diabetes. Because your pancreas can’t make insulin, its unable to store extra glucose. This process starves your cells, and so the body starts turning stored muscle and fat into energy. Eventually, you will begin to feel tired and weak because your body can’t use the glucose you eat for energy.
Constant Thirst And Frequent Urination
When your blood has too much glucose, one of the ways the body tries to get rid of it is via the kidneys. This process needs more water, forcing your kidneys to pull water from your cells, which in turn, makes you dehydrated and thirsty. The kidneys then become overworked and are unable to filter your blood, and so extra glucose is excreted in your urine.
Problems With Vision
Blurry vision may be a sign that your blood sugar levels are too high. This is because high blood sugar can damage the lenses in your eyes. It can also damage the blood vessels in your eyes, causing damage to your retina or weakening of your optic nerves. Diabetes can also lead to complications such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Tingling Or Numbness In Your Hands, Feet Or Legs
If you are experiencing tingling or numbness in your limbs, it may be a sign that you have Diabetes, and that it is causing damage to your nerves. Known as Neuropathy, these symptoms can be improved with treatment.
Healing Takes Longer
Because Diabetes damages blood vessels, blood cannot reach areas of infections, cuts and bruises efficiently. If you notice that small cuts and scrapes are taking longer than usual to heal, it may be time to visit a health care provider. Credits: Photo by Denys Nevozhai on Unsplash. Information: http://www.physician.co.za/