Im a GP — these are the lesser-known red-flag signs of diabetes
Dr Amir lists diabetes symptoms
Diabetes is a life-altering and typically lifelong condition that causes blood sugar levels to become too high.
Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1 – accounting for around 90 percent of cases.
This is usually caused by factors such as being overweight and not exercising enough, although it can also be hereditary.
It is not exactly known what causes type 1 diabetes but it occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.
If you have diabetes it is important you are diagnosed as soon as possible so you can access the necessary treatments, and prevent the condition getting worse.
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Like many conditions there are some symptoms of diabetes that are more well known than others.
GP Doctor Raj Arora spoke exclusively with Express.co.uk about signs of diabetes to be wary of.
She explained that early symptoms of diabetes to look for include: increased urinary frequency (peeing a lot) especially at night, increased thirst, weight loss (without trying) and feeling more hungry than usual.
Dr Arora also listed “obvious” signs as fatigue, slow healing wounds or cuts and numb or tingly hands or feet.
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She shared seven “lesser known” signs as:
- Increased fungal/urinary tract infections
- Mood swings
- Dry skin/skin changes
- Fruity breath
- Blurred vision (diabetic retinopathy)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Gum disease and poor oral health.
Should you seek medical help right away?
Dr Arora recommended speaking to a GP at the earliest opportunity if you notice any signs.
“Yes, as diabetes symptoms can sometimes escalate into a medical emergency quite quickly,” she said.
“Blood sugars can either drop too low causing hypoglycaemia or they may become too high causing DKA (diabetes ketoacidosis).
“If left untreated these emergencies can lead to death.
“Either way it is important to regulate sugar levels and stabilise insulin as quickly as possible by getting a diagnosis and treatment plan into place.
“If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned you must see your doctor and get a blood sugar level to check for diabetes.”
Depending on the type of diabetes you have, the symptoms can appear quickly or slowly.
The NHS explains: “Type 1 diabetes can develop quickly over weeks or even days.
“Weight loss is common in people with type 1 diabetes when it first develops and before it’s treated, but it’s less common in people with type 2 diabetes.
“Many people have type 2 diabetes for years without realising because the early symptoms tend to be general, or there are no symptoms at all.”
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