Wondering about the first signs of diabetes may be on your mind these days, especially if you’re over 35 or if your waist has been expanding uncomfortably due to weight gain. What are the warning signs? When should you run, not walk, to see a doctor? What might not be diabetes at all?
The First Signs of Diabetes (Type 2)
OK, you’re concerned that you might have type 2 diabetes; what are some of the signs and symptoms you need to be aware of? Here’s a list of questions to ask yourself.
How’s your vision? Is it normal, or do you find it getting blurry? If it’s blurrier than usual, has it been getting worse? Diabetes affects blood vessels and nerves, which can in turn affect your eyesight.
How do your lower legs feel? Are they tingly or numb in spots? Diabetes compromises nerves and blood circulation, and generally affects your lower extremities first.
How often do you have to urinate? Is it much more or less than usual? Allowing for you taking in more or less liquids lately, do you find yourself having to go a lot more often? Diabetes can affect the kidneys (nerves and blood vessels).
Are you sleepy or more fatigued than usual? For example, do you sit down in order to watch TV or read the paper, and the next thing you know, it’s hours later because you fell asleep? While diabetes is characterized by an excess of blood glucose (sugar), it can also fall too low as well. Obviously, measure this against the amount of sleep normal for you — if you haven’t been getting what you need, then you very well could be sleepy for that reason!
How irritable are you? Again, base this against what’s normal for you. If little things that didn’t used to bother you make you want to scream or burst into tears, take note of it. If you’re under a lot of stress, that may be the culprit. If your stress load is normal, then you may want to look at this further.
Are you thirstier than normal? Again, allow for factors such as hot weather, more exercise and such. Do you find yourself thirstier than is usual for you? A dry, cottony mouth could be a sign to take note of.
Do you have a problem with recurring infections or healing? This could be anything from a sore that doesn’t want to heal properly to a problem with recurring Candida infections. Diabetes compromises circulation and the excess of blood sugar is ideal for Candida to flourish.
How Did You Do?
Understand that these traditional first signs of diabetes could be caused by other conditions as well. However, if you find yourself saying, "Hey, that sounds like me!" then I suggest you pick up the phone -now- and schedule a visit with your doctor.
Actually, if you are even uneasy that some of these symptoms hit too close to home, I still recommend that you schedule a visit. If you don’t have diabetes, great! If you do, you need to get your blood sugar down by diet and exercise (and possibly medication).
Additional Reading
You might find the following reading helpful.
- A general listing for diabetic guidelines .
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