Signs And Symptoms Of Diabetes

It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. If you suspect diabetes you should seek the help of a professional immediately.

First we need to talk about the different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, previously termed juvenile diabetes, is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. In Type 1 diabetes the body does not produce enough insulin, which is a hormone that is needed to convert sugars and starches and other foods into energy. This type of diabetes affects approximately 5-10% of the diabetic community. Insulin therapy is used in treating this disease.

Type 2 diabetes is the more common form of diabetes effecting millions of Americans. This diabetes type is more prevalent in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Native Hawaiians as well as the older community.

Type 2 diabetes suffers bodies either do not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin it does produce. In this case the insulin taken is used to utilize the glucose from food to avoid a build up of glucose in the system. This build up of glucose causes serious complications.

There are some basic signs and symptoms of diabetes to be aware of. For Type 1 diabetes the patient might have frequent urination, be unusually thirsty, extremely hungry, have unusual weight loss and show extreme fatigue and irritability.

For Type 2 diabetes patients they may have all or any of the Type 1 diabetes patient combined with frequent infections, blurred vision, cuts and or bruises that are very slow to heal, may experience a tingling and or numbness in the hands and or feet and have some recurring skin, gum and or bladder infections. That having been said, often people with Type 2 diabetes do not show any symptoms.

If you have one or more of these symptoms you should seek the advice of your physician immediately. Additionally, if you have a history of diabetes in your family, talk with you doctor about regular testing to be sure you do not miss any of the signs. To test for diabetes a blood glucose test is typically done after a fast. As always, pay attention to what your body is telling you and don't brush off things that might seem silly to you. Tell your doctor if you have any changes that might be of concern.