Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how your body handles blood sugar (glucose). There are two main types: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Both types have some common symptoms, but there are also differences.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
- Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual. This happens because extra glucose in the blood makes the kidneys work harder, leading to more urine.
- Increased Thirst: Losing more water through frequent urination can make you feel very thirsty.
- Extreme Hunger: Even after eating, people with diabetes often feel hungry because their cells aren’t getting enough glucose.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: More common in Type 1 diabetes. The body starts using fat and muscle for energy when it can’t get enough glucose.
- Fatigue: Lack of glucose in cells can make you feel very tired.
- Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can cause the lenses in the eyes to swell, leading to blurry vision.
- Slow-Healing Sores: High glucose levels can slow down the healing process.
- Frequent Infections: People with diabetes are more likely to get infections, especially of the skin and gums.
- Numbness or Tingling: High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
- Dry Skin: Poor circulation and fluid loss can lead to dry, itchy skin.
Type-Specific Symptoms
- Type 1 Diabetes: Symptoms can appear quickly and include nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains. This type is usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Symptoms develop more slowly and can be less obvious. This type is more common in adults and is often linked to obesity.
Recognizing these symptoms early can help with timely diagnosis and treatment, making it easier to manage the condition and prevent complications. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a healthcare professional.
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