Warning Signs - Do You Have Diabetes?

Some people have health problems that are clear warning signs for either Type-1 or Type-2 diabetes, yet they do not do anything about it.

Lack of knowledge on the subject is a major factor in this problem. It can be helpful to take a look at some of the warning signs for diabetes.

Which Type of Diabetes? The answer here is either type. Both Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes have similar symptoms, and while treatment may be different, determining the warning signs is remarkably similar. Both types involve too much glucose in your blood, and not enough in the cells of your body.

Type-1 just means that the insulin-producing cells in your body have been destroyed.

Type-2 means your body has become resistant to the insulin being produced. But the end result is the same: not enough glucose in your cells. So we will not assume which type of diabetes you have. That would be up to your doctor.

Frequent Urination: One of the most common, and strongest, warning signs of diabetes is frequent trips to the bathroom. Do you feel like you are constantly getting up to urinate all day long? When your blood is carrying too much glucose, urination increases. If the insulin isn't getting there, your kidneys are unable to filter glucose back to the blood. As they become overwhelmed, they try to dilute the glucose by drawing extra water out of the blood. This results in a frequently full bladder.

Constantly Thirsty: Going hand-in-hand with frequent urination is a constant thirst. Your body is pulling more water out of the blood, and you are urinating frequently, you become dehydrated and need more water. Hence, you are constantly thirsty. If you have these first two common symptoms, get tested for diabetes with a doctor as soon as you can.

Weight Loss: Mainly associated with Type-1 diabetes, noticeable weight loss can result because your pancreas is not making insulin. Glucose gives energy to your cells, and when it is not there, the body looks for something else to burn to keep you going. This results in a break down of fat and muscle tissue. If weight loss is sudden, that can be a telltale sign of Type-1 diabetes.

Fatigue and Feelings of Weakness: Again, glucose gives your body energy. If you are tiring out quickly, your body may not be getting the glucose it needs.

Tingling or Numbness: This is called neuropathy - a numbness or tingling sensation in your hands, feet, or legs. High glucose levels in the blood damage the nervous system. This occurs gradually in Type-2 diabetes. In fact, nerve damage occurs so gradually, that we may not notice it at first. Fortunately, with proper treatment, neuropathy can decrease when you maintain control over glucose levels in the blood.

There are other signs that may point to diabetes, including frequent infections, cuts or bruises that take a long time to heal, dry and itchy skin, and blurred vision.

These signs are not replacements for a visit with your doctor. If something feels wrong, schedule an appointment and discuss your symptoms with him or her. They will be able to tell you whether or not you should be concerned.

About the Author:
Peter Geisheker is the CEO of The Geisheker Group marketing firm.