Many people are diagnosed with either condition as part of a routine or random blood glucose check. Sometimes they will have gone to the doctors after dealing with certain symptoms for many months or years, and they finally get to a point wherethey decide to get to the bottom of the cause.
In many cases, in the early days Pre-Diabetes can be asymptomatic – that is there are no symptoms, but blood sugar levels are starting to rise. If left unchecked or not picked up on a routine or random blood sugar check, the situation will generally worsen until either picked up on a later blood sugar check or symptoms begin to show.
And even when symptoms start to show, still many people haven’t begun to join the dots that they are becoming (or are, and simpy don’t know it yet) a Type 2 Diabetic.
This single page is possibly one of the most important pages of my website.
I cannot stress how important it is, that if you have not had a blood sugar check in the last couple of years, and you can identify with any of the symptoms listed below, that you go and have either a fasting fingerprick test or a HBA1C test done with your doctor. Without being overdramatic or overly sensational on the matter, identifying the symptoms of Pre-Diabetes or full Type 2 Diabetes might save you (or someone that you know) from serious health implications or a premature death.
This page forms the ‘identify and prevent’ part of my 100 million mission, and I encourage you to please spread this knowledge.
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The Subtle Signs of Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes
Persistent Fatigue
Persistent fatigue is one of the most common yet often overlooked symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Unlike the usual tiredness that follows physical exertion or a lack of sleep, this fatigue is more profound and relentless. It stems from the body’s inability to efficiently convert glucose from the bloodstream into energy. Insulin resistance means that glucose remains in the blood, unused by cells that need it for energy. This inefficiency leaves the body continuously starved of energy, causing chronic fatigue. If you find yourself inexplicably exhausted despite adequate rest, it might be worth considering an evaluation for type 2 diabetes.
Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
Increased thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria) are hallmark signs of diabetes. High blood glucose levels lead the kidneys to work overtime to filter and absorb the excess glucose. When the kidneys can’t keep up, the excess glucose is excreted in urine, which pulls fluids from your tissues, causing dehydration. This dehydration triggers excessive thirst. Consequently, you drink more fluids and urinate more frequently. If you notice an unquenchable thirst and an increased frequency in urination, it could be an early sign of type 2 diabetes.
Unexplained Weightloss
Despite eating normally or even more than usual, individuals with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes may experience unexplained weightloss. This occurs because the body, unable to use glucose for energy, starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel. This catabolic state results in weightloss and can be particularly alarming if you’re not intentionally trying to lose weight. If you find your clothes fitting looser without a change in diet or exercise, it might be a signal to get your blood sugar levels checked.
Increased Hunger
Alongside weightloss, increased hunger (polyphagia) is another common symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. The body’s inability to utilise glucose effectively means that cells are starved for energy. This state of cellular starvation triggers the brain to signal hunger, prompting you to eat more. Despite consuming more food, the body’s inability to process glucose properly continues, perpetuating the cycle of hunger and energy deprivation. If you find yourself constantly hungry, even after meals, it’s a symptom worth investigating.
Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can lead to changes in fluid levels within the eye, causing the lenses to swell and leading to blurred vision. This symptom can be intermittent and might be mistaken for age-related vision changes or eye strain. However, if you notice frequent episodes of blurred vision, it’s essential to consider it a potential sign of type 2 diabetes. Proper management of blood sugar levels often resolves these vision issues, but prolonged high glucose can lead to more serious eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy.
Slow Healing of Cuts and Bruises
High blood sugar levels impair the body’s natural healing process and increase the risk of infections. Reduced blood flow, due to damaged blood vessels, means that nutrients and oxygen are less effectively delivered to wounds, slowing the healing process. If you notice that cuts and bruises are taking longer than usual to heal, it could be an indicator of underlying type 2 diabetes. Pay attention to small injuries and their healing times, as this can be a significant clue to underlying health issues.
Frequent Infections
Frequent infections, particularly of the gums, skin, and urinary tract, can be a sign of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels create an environment conducive to bacterial and fungal growth. For instance, women might experience frequent yeast infections, while both men and women could suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections. Persistent or recurrent infections, despite treatment, warrant a closer look at blood sugar levels.
Tingling and Numbness
Type 2 diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy), particularly in the hands and feet. This damage manifests as tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation, often referred to as diabetic neuropathy. This condition is due to prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage nerves throughout the body. If left untreated, neuropathy can progress to significant pain and even loss of sensation, leading to more severe complications like foot ulcers. If you experience persistent tingling or numbness in your extremities, it’s crucial to seek medical advice.
Darkened Areas of Skin
Acanthosis nigricans is a condition characterised by dark, velvety patches of skin, usually in the folds and creases of the body such as the neck, armpits, and groin. This condition is often a sign of insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. The skin changes result from high levels of insulin stimulating the growth of skin cells and pigmentation. If you notice these skin changes, it’s essential to get your insulin levels and blood sugar checked.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of type 2 diabetes is crucial to managing and mitigating its impact on health. Without intervention, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, and amputations. Recognising the signs and symptoms early can lead to timely medical advice, lifestyle changes, and treatment, significantly improving health outcomes.
Practical Steps to Take Charge of Your Health
Regular Health Checks
Make it a habit to have regular health check-ups, especially if you have risk factors for type 2 diabetes such as a family history, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. Blood tests like fasting glucose, HbA1c, and oral glucose tolerance tests can help detect type 2 diabetes early. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels can catch the disease before it progresses to more severe stages.
Monitor Your Symptoms
Pay attention to your body. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t dismiss them. Keep a symptom diary and discuss your concerns with your doctor. Early discussions and evaluations can prevent long-term complications and lead to better health outcomes.
Healthy Diet
Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit refined sugars and processed foods. A diet high in fibre and low in simple sugars helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Foods with a low glycemic index are particularly beneficial for managing blood sugar.
Regular Exercise
Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. This can include walking, cycling, swimming, or any activity that increases your heart rate and keeps you moving. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, helping your cells use glucose more effectively.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you’re overweight, even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of your body weight can significantly improve your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A healthy weight reduces the strain on your body and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain hydration and can assist in managing blood sugar levels. Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water, herbal teas, or other non-caloric beverages. Staying hydrated helps your kidneys function effectively and supports overall health.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can affect your blood sugar levels. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Stress management techniques can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and improve overall wellbeing.
Get Enough Sleep
Poor sleep can negatively impact your blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep routine and create a restful environment to improve sleep quality.
Undiagnosed type 2 diabetes can silently wreak havoc on your health. By understanding and recognising the subtle signs and symptoms, you can take proactive steps towards early detection and management. Regular health checks, a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and educating yourself are all practical steps you can take to reduce your risk and lead a healthier life. Remember, early detection and intervention can make all the difference.
