The symptoms of diabetes

A serious disease that medication can help control, millions of Americans are not aware that they are suffering with diabetes. Often diagnosed later because many of the symptoms seem to be harmless, an early diagnosis decreases the chances of developing complications related to this disease. While each of these symptoms alone does not indicate a person has the disease, several of them combined together would indicate that a visit to the doctor is necessary.


Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes often appear suddenly and worsen quickly. Type 2 diabetics report that symptoms are more subtle and easily missed in the early stages of the disease. If you are at risk of diabetes because of genetic or other medical conditions it is important to continue yearly check ups with a physician.

1~Increase urination

Patients eventually diagnosed with diabetes frequently complain of increased urination. As glucose increases in the blood, it can appear in urine. The need to urinate continues to increase the amount of glucose in the blood continues to rise. The need to use the bathroom will begin to disrupt daily life and sleep at night. Waking up several times during the night to use the bathroom is a sign of increased sugar in the bloodstream.

2~ Excessive Thirst

The body tries to counteract the high blood sugar in the blood by sending a signal to the brain indicating thirst. The body's goal is the decrease the sugar by diluting the blood with water. This will help dilute the blood sugars back to normal levels. The increased thirst also helps to compensate for the dehydration caused by an increase in urination.

3~ Extreme Hunger

Insulin assists in the breaking down of food. Without it, the body is unable to use the nutrients supplied to it. A person should not feel hungry all day if they are eating healthy meals with nutrients the body requires to function.

4~Unusual Weight Loss

The lack of insulin to metabolize carbohydrates and other nutrients leads to weight loss, despite the increase in appetite. Insulin is an anabolic hormone that encourages the storage of protein and fat. Without the ability to store new materials, the body will begin to burn the fat and protein available in the body for energy.

5~ Blurry Vision

Especially common in patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, blurry vision is a sign of the disease. Many people go to the eye doctor complaining of decreased vision, only to leave with a recommendation to visit their primary care physician. Have a doctor check a sudden change in vision as soon as possible.

6~Increased fatigue

The inability to break down and use food leads to a decrease in energy. This will become apparent in a feeling of tiredness and lack of energy that feels similar to having the flu.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact a doctor immediately. Advances in the care of this disease have led to better outcomes and increased life spans. Patients also see a decrease in complication when diagnosed earlier. If experiencing any of the symptoms above, do not panic. Take the steps necessary to confirm a diagnosis.