Diabetes has become increasingly common among adults today, affecting around 6 out of 10 individuals. This prevalence can often be attributed to sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and genetic factors.
Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes is crucial. These typically include dizziness, reduced appetite, and nausea—indicators that your blood sugar levels may be elevated.
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels involves adopting a balanced diet low in sugar and staying physically active. However, some symptoms may go unnoticed. Here are eight to be aware of:
Frequent Urination: High blood sugar levels prompt frequent urination as the kidneys work to remove excess glucose. This can even disrupt sleep with urgent trips to the bathroom.
Increased Hunger: Diabetes can lead to persistent hunger as the body struggles to process glucose effectively, leaving you feeling constantly hungry.
Blurred Vision: Elevated blood sugar can damage small blood vessels in the eyes, causing blurred vision that fluctuates with blood sugar levels.
Delayed Wound Healing: Elevated blood sugar can impair circulation and tissue health, slowing the healing of wounds and increasing the risk of infection.
Yeast Infections: Excess sugar in the blood can promote yeast growth in moist areas like the armpits, genitals, and mouth, leading to itching and potential rashes.
Unexplained Weight Loss: When the body can’t utilize glucose for energy, it starts burning fat and muscle, resulting in unexplained weight loss—a potential indicator of diabetes.
Increased Thirst: Persistent thirst and frequent water consumption may indicate diabetes, driven by the dehydration caused by frequent urination.
Tingling or Numbness: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, causing tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, which can progress to pain over time.
Taking proactive steps to manage your health is crucial to avoid complications associated with diabetes. Regular medical check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to preventing and managing this condition effectively.