Warning Signs Of Diabetes
Diabetes can cause serious and possibly fatal complications if not treated. According to the American Diabetes Association (statistics released 01/2011) 25.8 million people in the United States suffer from diabetes and 7 million of those are undiagnosed cases. Fortunately, there are warning signs to assist with early diagnosis.
The symptoms of diabetes are common occurrences that do not seem significant or indicative of any impending health issue. As a result, diabetes often goes undetected.
Warning Signs of Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a condition in which the body does not produce insulin in order to process sugars and starches. Children, teenagers and young adults are most commonly found to suffer from type 1.
- Unusual fatigue
- Irritability
- Unexplainable weight loss
- Unsatisfied hunger
- Thirst
- Frequent urination
Warning Signs of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most commonly diagnosed form of the disease. In some cases the body does not produce insulin; in others the body does not recognize that insulin is present. Either way, the body is unable to properly process and utilize sugars and starches. In some cases no warning signs or symptoms of the disease are present. As a result, many people with type 2 diabetes go undiagnosed.
- Any or all type 1 warning signs
- Repeated or recurring infections particularly of the skin or gums
- Frequent bladder infections
- Blurry vision
- Wounds heal slowly
- Bruises heal slowly
- Numb and/or tingling sensation in the hands and/or feet
Risk Test
The American Diabetes Association website has short risk test designed to help recognized diabetic risk factors. The questions are simple and take about a minute to answer. The result is a risk rating ranging from low to high. Tips for lowering diabetic risk are given at the end of the test, along with the recommendation to consult a physician in medium and high-risk cases.