Diabetes Symptoms
The symptoms of both type 1 and type
2 diabetes are similar. It is the speed in which they manifest that
differs.
Type 1 diabetes symptoms develop
over a short period of time. Type 1 diabetes is caused by an
autoimmune response within the body which attacks the precious beta
cells in the pancreas. The condition is irreversible and sufferers
will need insulin supplementation for the rest of their lives.
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Because there is no insulin
being produced in the case of type 1 diabetes, symptoms
develop and worsen very quickly with sufferers quickly
falling into a diabetic coma if the condition is not
diagnosed.
The situation is very
different with type 2 diabetes. In this form of the disease
some insulin is still being produced and released, it may
not be enough or the cells may have become resistant and
unable to utilise the insulin that is available, but there
will be some insulin present within the body. This means
that symptoms develop more slowly and progress over an
extended period of time. It can be many years before a type
2 diabetic receives a diagnosis.
For both types of diabetes
the symptoms are the same and it is important to seek
medical help if any of the following are noticed: |
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Excessive thirst – this is an early indication
that all is not well. It can of course be attributed to other
factors but it is worth asking the doctor to check if this
symptom is noticed.
Frequent urination – obviously if more fluid is going in, it has
to come out. There may be a sweet smell to the urine indicating
high sugar levels. There can be other health conditions that
cause more frequent urination and they are all worth checking
out.
High blood glucose levels can damage the smaller blood vessels
which in turn can cause damage to the sensitive structure of the
eye. Any sudden changes in vision must be investigated promptly.
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Sweet smelling breath
may be noticed by diabetes sufferers or their nearest and dearest. It is worth
investigating as it can be indicative of diabetes.
A non-seasonal increase in appetite is worth noting, especially if this is
accompanied by an unexplained weight loss.
Drowsiness and lethargy can be overlooked as nowadays everyone is leading a busy
life. However, it is worth investigating if it does not improve after a few
early nights.
Heavy, laboured breathing can be masked by all manner of modern day respiratory
problems but can be a symptom of diabetes. Stupor and unconsciousness is the final symptom, by which time it is often too
late to do anything to help.
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Become conscious of your body
and the warning signs it sends out. Ignoring symptoms can only
lead to them worsening and even the development of a more
serious health problem. Go and get them checked out!
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