Diabetes is a disease that occurs due to the improper production of insulin in the body.
Diabetes is of primarily of two types, Type 1 is also known as insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Type 2 begins with insulin resistance which is when the body does not respond to the insulin generated. There is also a third type called gestational diabetes which occurs during pregnancy.
Diabetes in common is referred to Type 2 diabetes as the other types are rare in comparison. This is characterized by a rise in blood sugar or glucose levels, that is higher than 200 mg/dL. In this case, the sugar cannot be sent to the cells where it is to be broken down. As a result, the body has to depend on alternative sources of energy. Often, people suffer from Type 2 diabetes without even realizing it. Also called adult-onset diabetes, it is primarily characterized by increased weight and excessive fatigue.
Early Signs Of Diabetes
The early signs of the different types of diabetes vary.
Type 1
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin. The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes develop quickly and can be mistaken for symptoms of other illness, such as flu.
Symptoms of high blood sugar:
Frequent urination: This may occur more often at night. The body tries to get rid of the excess sugar in the bloodstream by causing the system to urinate more.
Increased thirst: Such frequent urination, may also result in dehydration of the body, resulting in increased thirst.
Increased hunger: This may occur because the body does not utilize all its calories. This leads to sudden bouts of hunger.
Weight loss: Weight loss may occur due to dehydration or due to loss of calories from the body without these being utilized.
Fatigue: This is due to the calories not being used, and as a result, the body does not get enough energy.
Blurred vision: This is another side effect due to dehydration and fatigue.
Symptoms of low blood sugar:
These occur when the blood sugar level has dropped below 70 mg/dL. Low blood sugar is just as harmful and immediate treatment should be given. The signs of low blood sure can be identified through these symptoms:
– Sweating.
– Nervousness, shakiness, and weakness.
– Extreme hunger and slight nausea.
– Dizziness and headache.
– Blurred vision.
– A fast heartbeat and feeling of anxiety.
If any of these symptoms are seen, they are early signs of low blood pressure. It makes the person and the immune system weak.
Type 2
There are certain signs that can be observed before the onset of Type 2 diabetes. These are the early signs of the disease.
The early signs of Type 2 diabetes are similar to the Type 1. They have the same symptoms of increased, thirst, hunger, and frequent urination. It also causes blurred vision and fatigue. However, one additional symptom is the sores and cuts that take longer to heal. These factors indicate Type 2 diabetes, and it is advisable to get the same checked.
It is better to be cautious with certain factors as they may cause the onset of diabetes. Obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure have been found to be the leading reasons for the disease. In that case, it is safest to take precaution and follow preventive measures.
Combating diabetes involves following a proper diet and exercising every day. A lifestyle change is needed to deal with it.