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Diabetes is a serious disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or effectively use insulin, which leads to chronically high blood sugar levels. Early diagnosis is crucial because untreated diabetes can have serious consequences for the quality and length of life. Many early symptoms of diabetes are vague and easily overlooked, which can make early recognition of the condition difficult.
Here are the most common early symptoms of diabetes that you should not ignore:
1. Increased thirst and frequent urination
One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is increased thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria). When the kidneys cannot reabsorb excess sugar, it is excreted in the urine and draws water with it, increasing the need to drink and causing more frequent trips to the toilet.
2. Increased hunger
Excessive hunger (polyphagia) is another key symptom of diabetes. If your body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to it properly, it cannot effectively use glucose as an energy source, which leads to frequent and intense feelings of hunger that do not subside even after eating.
3. Fatigue
Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of diabetes. Lack of insulin and the resulting problems using glucose for energy can make you feel constantly tired and drowsy. Dehydration caused by frequent urination can worsen this condition.
4. Blurred vision
Blurred vision can be another early symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause swelling of the eye’s lens and change its shape, leading to vision problems.
5. Unexplained weight loss
If you are losing weight without an obvious reason, such as a change in diet or increased physical activity, it can be a sign of diabetes. A body that cannot effectively use glucose begins to burn fats and proteins, leading to weight loss.
6. Itchy skin
Itchy skin can be a result of dehydration and loss of fluids caused by excessive urination. Dry skin may be prone to cracking and infections. Fungal infections, which are common with diabetes, can also cause itching.
7. Slow wound healing
High blood sugar levels can affect the body’s ability to heal and regenerate. Poor circulation and inflammatory processes can slow the healing of wounds and abrasions.
8. Dark skin patches
Acanthosis nigricans is a condition that appears as dark patches of skin with a velvety texture, usually in areas with skin folds such as the neck, armpits, or groin. This condition may indicate insulin resistance, which is often associated with diabetes.
9. Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
Numbness, tingling, or pain in the limbs can be a sign of nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. This condition, known as diabetic neuropathy, often affects the hands and feet, which are furthest from the heart.
If you have any of these symptoms or are concerned about your health, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life.
