Symptoms of Diabetes
There is often confusion between diabetes (hyperglycemia)
and hypoglycemia, but they are two different conditions. High
blood sugar levels cause the symptoms of diabetes, whereas
hypoglycemia occurs when an individual’s pancreas makes too much
insulin.
The symptoms of low blood sugar can include:
- Mental confusion
- Feeling clammy or sweating
- Shakiness
A person showing symptoms of hypoglycemia needs to be given
glucose to raise the low blood sugar to a normal level. If
you are hypoglycemic, then eating healthy snacks in between
meals can prevent these symptoms occurring.
Many women have diabetic symptoms during the later part of pregnancy. This
is known as gestational diabetes. Pregnancy increases insulin
resistance, which is why all pregnant women are tested, as a precaution.
This is particulary important as gestational diabetes symptoms are rare.
There are two main types of diabetes symptoms, those that
accompany type 1 diabetes, and those that accompany type
11.
Type 1 is often diagnosed during childhood. It occurs because
the pancreas stops making insulin. Warning signs diabetes of this type are few,
as it develops quickly.
Type 2 differs in that it is most often diagnosed in adults,
and there are warning signs early on with this condition. The early symptoms
diabetes are mild, and progress. In the beginning you may find that you have
a skin rash, which takes a long time to heal.
The high blood sugar symptoms then become more severe, and
include excessive urination and thirst. Other symptoms may
include:
- Weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Genital itching
- Recurrent thrush
- Fatigue
It is advisable to go to your doctor when you notice the first
signs of diabetes, as type 2 diabetes symptoms can progress
into potentially life-threatening conditions, such as DKA or HHNS.
If you have the beginning signs of diabetes and your doctor diagnoses you as a diabetic, then this is not the end of the world. Treatment is always effective, and lifestyle changes, like, giving up smoking, exercising, and eating healthily, can restore your blood sugar level to normal.
There are several websites that offer a diabetes-screening quiz. These are simple to participate in, and may help you decide that you should visit you doctor, or health practitioner.
If you have a cat or a dog (canine) then you may be interested
to know that our four legged friends can also exhibit symptoms of high blood
sugar, and become diabetic.
The first signs of diabetes in your pet will usually show in a deterioration
of his coat. In fact this is usually the first indicator of
many problems in animals, so I advice seeking the advice of a veterinary
surgeon, as soon as possible.
Other diabetic symptoms in your cat or dog, include:
- Weight loss
- Constant hunger
- Excessive thirst
- Frequently urinating
Your vet will probably recommend insulin therapy, and instruct
you how to administer this. However alternative vets prefer natural treatments,
such as homeopathy to relieve the symptoms of diabetes. It really depends on
the severity of the condition.