The CDC reports approximately 14.6 million Americans have diabetes, while another 6.2 million remain undiagnosed. Age, obesity, genetics and being of certain ethnicity play a role in the development of diabetes. Family history plays a significant role in the risk for diabetes. People often ignore or are unaware of the symptoms of diabetes and not all people with diabetes show signs or symptoms of the disease. If you believe you are at risk for diabetes, review the symptoms and make note of any changes in your body. Prompt medical attention and early diagnosis may help reduce or delay complications from diabetes.
Thirst
A condition known as polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is one of the most common complaints of new diabetics. Thirst not associated with sweat loss in exercise or as a result of a high sodium diet may be a symptom of diabetes. In the "Handbook of Diabetes Medical Nutrition Therapy," Powers reports dehydration can occur when blood sugars remain high. Be aware of any changes in your frequency of thirst, when not associated with changes in behavior.
Urinary Frequency
Thirst is one sign of dehydration and when paired with an increase in fluid intake leads to high urine output. The kidneys function to flush out toxins in the body. When elevated glucose levels are present in the blood, the kidneys work to remove excess glucose through an increase in urination. Other medical conditions may cause an increase in urination. If concerned about changes in urine output, seek medical advice from your medical provider.
Increase in Appetite
Changes in appetite can occur for any number of reasons. Medications, increases in activity level and stress frequently stimulate the appetite and should not necessarily be associated with diabetes. When blood sugars fluctuate greatly, hunger is often a noticeable side effect. Unexplained increases in appetite when combined with other symptoms may be a sign of diabetes.
Unplanned Weight Loss
Weight loss that is not due to dietary changes is another symptom of diabetes. Unplanned weight loss is a common symptom of other conditions, but when combined with increased thirst and increased urination may be a telling sign of diabetes. Five percent weight loss in one month is significant. New diabetics will not demonstrate all the symptoms provided, as it is unlikely that increased appetite and loss of weight will occur at the same time.
Non-healing Wounds
In "Advances in Skin and Wound Care," Nancy Collins notes high blood glucose decreases blood flow to wounds which in turn decreases nutrient transport to wounds. Decreased nutrient absorption delays wound healing.
Vision Impairment
New onset blurred vision is hard to ignore and it is often the reason for an unscheduled visit to the doctor. Hyperglycemia can alter the way the eye focuses on objects, which lead to blurry eye sight.
Considerations
These symptoms should not be used for diagnosing your illness yourself. If more than one symptom is present, contact your medical provider. A basic metabolic panel can test blood glucose levels and help diagnose diabetes.
References
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: 2005 National Diabetes Fact Sheet
- "Handbook of Diabetes MNT"; Margaret A. Powers; 1996
- "Advances in Skin and Wound Care"; Diabetes, Nutrition, and Wound Healing; Nancy Collins; Nov. 2003
