Have you been ignoring critical signs for months and dismissing them as some minor and inconsequential issue? Listed here are 6 key symptoms of type 2 diabetes everyone should be aware of.
Blurry Vision
Type 2 diabetes can play a major role in vision problems. When glucose reaches high levels in the blood it actually changes the shape of the lens and the eye itself. Due to this change and pressure build-up, quality vision can become distorted and blurry.
Once blood sugar levels are returned to normal, vision issues are typically restored. However, if blood sugar goes unchecked for a long period of time, the transformation of both the eye and lens can be permanent. This can result in indefinite blurred vision and even blindness.
Dry Skin
Are you having random and unexplained bouts with itchy and/or dry skin? Are they coupled with poor circulation? This can often be a warning sign of type 2 diabetes. More specifically, the darkening of the skin around the neck or armpit area is a major cause of concern.
If you have spotted various skin problems on your body that are common with what has been noted within this particular category, you are advised to consult your physician and have your blood sugar checked.
Chronic Fatigue & Irritability
One of the most common side effects associated with high blood sugar levels is chronic fatigue and irritability.
As the body attempts to compensate for its glucose deficiency, going to the restroom rather than sleeping can take up plenty of time during your intended sleeping hours. Additionally, fatigue and irritability can become perpetual and no amount of sleep can rectify the problem.
Numb & Tingling Limbs
Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet is typically a core symptom of type 2. Coupled with burning pain and even swelling, these particular symptoms are brought on due to nerve disruptions triggered by high blood sugar levels.
Potentially permanent if nerves are damaged, the condition known as neuropathy is a battle many diabetics face after dealing with diabetes for many years.
Excessive Thirst & Frequent Urination
One of the most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes involves the combination of increased urination and excessive thirst. In order to get rid of increased glucose that has been accumulated in the blood, your kidneys have to work overtime. This extra work is what causes increased urination and the general urge to urinate more often than normal.
Additionally, because urination becomes frequent and much fluid is being lost, it is only natural that increased thirst is also a symptom. In summary, both symptoms are simply your body’s way of trying to manage your high blood sugar.
Rapid Weight Loss
If you have noticed that you are losing weight rapidly, you could potentially have type 2 diabetes. Due to the very fact that insulin is unable to urge glucose into your cells, where it is often used as essential energy, the body goes into starvation mode. The result of this process can culminate in the breaking down of protein from muscles and used as an alternative to fuel.
Additionally, due to the aforementioned fact that your kidneys are working overtime, the overall calorie loss within a 24-hour period can become substantial. As all of these processes require energy, weight loss is the result. The medical community defines this condition as a calorie deficit.
Excessive Hunger Pangs
Besides unplanned weight loss, excessive hunger pangs can also be a sign. Caused by the harsh peaks and valleys that are associated with extreme blood sugar fluctuation, the body essentially goes into a state of shock.
When blood sugar levels drop, your body will think it has not been fed regardless if you have eaten or not. This will cause you to crave more food and the needed glucose the cells require in order to function. Quite a serious cycle, extreme hunger should serve as a red flag when it comes to type 2 diabetes.
