According to the Mayo Clinic, Type 2 Diabetes can present itself very slowly. In fact, you can have Type 2 Diabetes for years and not even know it. Here is a list of a few common symptoms:
Increased thirst and frequent urination. As increased sugar builds up in your bloodstream, fluid is pulled from tissues, leaving you excessively thirsty. As a result, you may drink — and urinate — more than usual.
Increased hunger. Without enough insulin to move sugar into your cells, your muscles and organs become depleted of energy, triggering intense hunger.
Slow healing sores or frequent infections. Type 2 Diabetes depletes your tissues, affecting your ability to heal and resist infections, even from small injuries.
Weight loss. Despite eating more than usual to relieve hunger, you may still lose weight. Without the ability to absorb glucose, the body is forced to use alternative fuels stored in muscle and fat. Calories are lost as excess glucose is released in the urine rather than stored and burned.
Fatigue. Cells deprived of critical sugars will cause you to become tired, which often makes many people feel irritable.
Blurred vision. If your blood sugar becomes too high, fluid may be pulled from the lenses of your eyes, making it more difficult to focus clearly.
Areas of darkened skin. Some people with Type 2 Diabetes develop patches of dark, velvety skin in the folds and creases of their bodies — frequently in their armpits. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, may be a sign of insulin resistance.
When to see a doctor. See your doctor if you're concerned about diabetes or if you begin to notice any of these Type 2 Diabetes symptoms.
Until next time, stay healthy!
Yours in health,
Dr. Gregg Gittins
