Diabetes mellitus often develops silently, without obvious signs. Many patients are unaware of the disease for a long time and do not seek medical help. However, there are symptoms that can accurately indicate the presence of diabetes, said Invitro-Povolzhye endocrinologist Anastasia Ostapenko in an interview with RG.RU (18+).
We are talking about 5 non-specific signs that are worth paying attention to:
Frequent urination, thirst and dry mouth
Waking up at night due to dry mouth is a common symptom. When glucose levels are elevated, the body tries to get rid of excess glucose through the kidneys, removing large amounts of fluid. This leads to constant thirst and an increased urge to urinate.
Increased appetite
In diabetes, the body has difficulty converting glucose into energy. This can cause severe hunger pangs, tremors and weakness at night, even after a large dinner.
Fatigue and loss of strength
Insufficient or ineffective insulin production means cells do not receive enough glucose for energy, causing a constant feeling of fatigue.
Slow wound healing, frequent colds
High sugar levels have a negative impact on the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Poor circulation and dehydration slow down the wound healing process.
Tingling and itching sensation in the legs
Diabetes can cause nerve damage, resulting in pain, itching, or tingling, especially in the legs and feet.
“In addition to the above, elevated levels of sugar in the blood and urine create a favorable environment for the development of fungal infections, which is why diabetics often experience vaginal thrush or skin fungal diseases. In addition, the condition of the blood vessels worsens, causing them to become less effective in nourishing the skin, which leads to its sensitivity, dryness and increased susceptibility to damage,” notes Anastasia Ostapenko.
Attention! The article is for informational purposes only. If you notice any of the listed symptoms, consult an endocrinologist.
