Diabetes affects millions of people around the world, and early detection is key.
Most people don’t even realise that they have prediabetes until it develops
into a serious problem… So it’s important to be
aware of the early warning signs and take preventative action as soon as possible…
Because diabetes can have devastating effects if not managed properly.
So in this video, we're going to discuss 10 early signs of diabetes that you should watch out for.
Many people don’t even notice these symptoms as they pop up…
Or ignore them and hope they’ll go away… But that can be a mistake…
And leads to people crossing the threshold from prediabetes to full blown type 2 diabetes…
By which time, insulin dysfunction is so far progressed… that it
can be hard to dig your way out. Factors such as obesity, poor diet,
stress, and lack of physical activity all contribute to its development.
So, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to talk
to a healthcare provider as soon as possible and implement the lifestyle changes we’ve outlined
in our other videos. Before we dive in…
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Number 1. Increased thirst and urination Increased thirst and urination are two of
the earliest and most common signs of diabetes. This happens because when blood sugar levels are
high, the body tries to remove the excess sugar by passing it through the kidneys and into the urine.
However, as sugar is removed from the bloodstream, it also takes water with it, leading to
dehydration and an increased need to urinate. Imagine your bloodstream as a
river flowing through your body. Glucose is the main source of energy for your
cells, so it's like a boat floating on that river. Insulin acts like a lock and key,
allowing glucose to enter the cells where it can be used for energy.
However, in diabetes, either there is not enough insulin or the insulin that is present is not
working properly, so glucose cannot enter the cells and stays in the bloodstream,
like a boat that can't get through a locked gate. As a result, the river gets clogged with boats,
causing the water to rise and flood the banks. The body tries to remove the excess glucose
by passing it through the kidneys and into the urine, but it also takes water with it, leading
to dehydration and an increased need to urinate. It's important to note that increased thirst and
urination can be caused by other factors as well, such as certain medications or kidney problems.
Therefore, if you are experiencing these symptoms, it's important to talk
to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.
Number 2. Fatigue Fatigue is another early sign that is
often overlooked or attributed to other factors. As we discussed, glucose is our main source
of fuel… but with insulin dysfunction, glucose doesn’t get from blood into cells.
This means cells aren’t getting the energy they need, like a car with an empty gas tank.
Again, fatigue can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as anemia or thyroid problems,
so talk to a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.
In addition to managing blood sugar through diet, getting regular exercise and enough sleep can
also help alleviate fatigue. Number 3. Blurred Vision
High blood sugar can damage the lenses in your eyes, leading to vision problems.
This happens when high glucose causes lenses to swell, making them less able to focus properly.
Additionally, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the retina, leading to
a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Blurred vision can also be caused by other
factors, such as age-related changes in the eyes or other eye conditions.
Regular eye exams can help detect any changes in vision early and allow for timely treatment.
Number 4. Slow healing Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves,
leading to poor circulation and reduced sensation. This can create a perfect storm for slow healing.
One way that diabetes affects healing is through the formation of advanced
glycation end-products (AGEs). These are formed when glucose
molecules attach to proteins in the body, a process known as glycation.
AGEs can accumulate in tissues throughout the body, including the skin, where they can
interfere with the normal healing process. Additionally, diabetes can impair the
function of white blood cells, which play a critical role in preventing infections.
This can slow down the healing process. Finally, as we discussed, high blood
sugar can lead to dehydration, which further impairs the healing process.
When the body is dehydrated, it becomes difficult for cells to receive the nutrients
and oxygen they need to repair and regenerate. As you can see, everything is connected…
Which is why it’s imperative to be proactive… Whether you’ve been diagnosed already…
Are pre-diabetic… Or simply suspect you might be heading that way…
It’s essential to maintain good blood sugar control…
Through exercise, proper food, and all the tips we’ve discussed in our other videos.
Number 5. Tingling and Numbness Just like with the eyes, Diabetes
can damage nerves throughout the body, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy.
This damage can result in a loss of sensation or abnormal sensations, such as tingling or burning.
The nerve damage in diabetes is caused by several factors.
High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels which supply nerves with oxygen and nutrients.
Over time, this impedes nerve function and, ultimately, leads to nerve damage.
In addition, high blood sugar can trigger the formation of
toxic by-products that damage the nerves. Nerve damage can occur throughout the body,
but is most commonly seen in the feet and legs. If diabetic neuropathy is left untreated
or is not well-managed, it can progress to serious complications.
One of the most common complications is the development of foot ulcers,
which are open sores on the feet or toes. Nerve damage can reduce sensation in the feet,
making it more difficult to detect cuts, blisters, or other injuries.
These wounds can then become infected and slow-healing,
leading to potentially life-threatening complications such as gangrene or amputation.
Diabetic neuropathy can also affect the autonomic nerves that control digestion,
heart rate, and blood pressure. This leads to problems like gastroparesis,
when the stomach empties too slowly… as well as orthostatic hypotension,
where blood pressure drops when you stand up. Unfortunately, diabetic neuropathy impacts the
quality of life of far too many people. Constant pain, tingling, and numbness can
take over… making it difficult to sleep, concentrate, and perform daily activities.
And of course, amputation turns life upside down in terms of working or enjoying life with family.
So as you can see, it’s important to take proactive action as early as possible.
Additionally, taking good care of the feet and legs can help to prevent complications.
If you’ve crossed the diabetes threshold already, inspecting the feet daily for cuts or wounds,
wearing comfortable shoes that fit well, and avoiding tight socks or stockings are key.
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Now, back to our video… Number 6. Dry Skin
Dry skin is caused by a combination of factors. High blood sugar leads to dehydration,
which makes the skin dry and itchy. When blood vessels that supply the
skin get damaged, this impairs oil production and reduces moisture levels.
Diabetes can also lead to a condition known as xerosis,
which is characterized by dry, scaly skin. Xerosis occurs when the skin loses its ability
to retain moisture and becomes rough and flaky. It can occur anywhere on the body, but is most
commonly seen on the legs, arms, and torso. Diabetes can also cause changes in skin color,
particularly on the feet and legs. The skin may become lighter or darker,
and may also take on a shiny, waxy appearance. Beyond the preventative steps we’ve discussed
already, drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive alcohol
consumption can help to maintain healthy skin. In addition, it is important to adopt a good
skincare routine. This includes using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers,
and avoiding harsh soaps or hot water that can further dry out the skin.
Moisturizing the skin immediately after showering or bathing can also
help to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. If dry skin persists despite these measures,
it is important to seek medical attention. Number 7. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is a common sign of diabetes,
especially in people with type 1 diabetes. When the body does not produce enough insulin,
it cannot properly process glucose from the foods we eat into energy.
As a result, the body begins to break down fat and muscle tissue for energy, leading to weight loss.
Diabetes can also affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food,
leading to malnutrition and weight loss. Unexplained weight loss in diabetes is not always
a cause for concern, but it can be a sign of poor blood sugar control or other complications.
Number 8. Increased Hunger Increased hunger, or polyphagia,
can be a sign of diabetes. Because the body cannot properly
use glucose, it signals feelings of hunger… even shortly after eating.
The pancreas may also produce more insulin in an attempt to lower blood sugar levels,
which can further increase hunger. In type 1 diabetes, the body is not
able to produce insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels and increased hunger.
In type 2 diabetes, the body may produce insulin, but it may not be able to use it
effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels and increased hunger.
If you are experiencing increased hunger and are concerned about diabetes, your healthcare provider
can perform blood sugar tests and determine if you have prediabetes or another underlying condition.
Number 9. Irritability Irritability can be a
sign of diabetes, particularly when blood sugar levels are fluctuating.
Dehydration can lead to irritability and difficulty concentrating.
If blood sugar levels drop to the level of hypoglycemia… which can happen as a
response… shakiness and confusion can appear. Diabetes also affects hormone regulation,
leading to mood swings and irritability. Number 10. Infections
Infections, particularly in the gums, skin, and bladder, can be a sign of diabetes.
High blood sugar weakens the immune system and makes it harder
for the body to fight off infection. Additionally, it can create a favorable
environment for bacteria and fungi to grow, leading to an increased risk of infections.
In the gums, damaged blood vessels and nerves can lead to gum disease
and other infections in the mouth. In the bladder, reduced immunity makes
it hard to fight off urinary tract infections and increases the risk of recurrent infections.
Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help, as well as drinking
plenty of water… but getting blood sugar down is the number one key.
There you have it, 10 early signs of diabetes you should watch out for.
Number 1: Increased thirst and urination Number 2. Fatigue
Number 3: Blurred vision Number 4: Slow-healing
Number 5: Tingling or numbness Number 6: Dry skin
Number 7: Unexplained weight loss Number 8: Increased hunger
Number 9: Irritability Number 10: Infections
If you notice any of these, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have diabetes…
But they are early warning signs to keep an eye out for…
Especially if your diet and lifestyle aren’t in line with what we discuss in our other videos.
If you are concerned about diabetes, speak with your healthcare provider
and get a blood sugar test. And remember, it’s never
too early or too late to make positive changes to prevent or manage diabetes.
We hope you found this video useful… Let us know in the comments if you have questions…
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