Il diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar (glycemia) levels. Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes is essential to getting an early diagnosis and starting the appropriate treatment. This article will explore the most common symptoms of diabetes, diagnostic tests used to determine if you have diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes
Common symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes can overlap, although type 1 diabetes tends to develop more quickly and at a younger age, while type 2 develops more slowly and often into adulthood. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
1. Sete eccessiva (polydipsia)
- Description: Persistent feeling of thirst, despite drinking plenty of water.
- Reason: High blood sugar levels cause dehydration as the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through urine.
2. Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Description: Increased frequency and volume of urine.
- Reason: The kidneys work harder to filter and absorb excess glucose from the blood, leading to increased urine production.
3. Excessive hunger (polyphagia)
- Description: Persistent feeling of hunger, even after eating.
- Reason: The body is unable to effectively use glucose as an energy source, resulting in a constant feeling of hunger.
4. Unexplained weight loss
- Description: Unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite and food intake.
- Reason: The body starts burning fat and muscle for energy because it can’t use glucose.
5. Fatigue
- Description: Constant feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
- Reason: The body is unable to use glucose as an energy source, leading to a feeling of constant fatigue.
6. Blurred vision
- Description: Difficulty seeing clearly, with blurry or distorted vision.
- Reason: High blood sugar levels can cause changes in the lens of the eye, affecting vision.
7. Frequent infections
- Description: Frequent infections, especially skin, urinary tract and mouth infections.
- Reason: High blood sugar can weaken the immune system and promote the growth of bacteria and fungi.
8. Slow wound healing
- Description: Wounds and cuts that heal slowly.
- Reason: High blood sugar can impair blood circulation and the body’s ability to heal.
Diagnostic tests for diabetes
If you suspect you have diabetes because of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor for a complete evaluation. The main diagnostic tests for diabetes include:
1. Fasting blood sugar
- Description: Measurement of blood glucose levels after fasting for at least 8 hours.
- Values:
- Normal: Meno at 100 mg/dL.
- Prediabete: 100-125 mg/dL.
- Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher.
2. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
- Description: Measurement of average blood glucose levels over the last 2-3 months.
- Values:
- Normal: Less than 5.7%.
- Prediabete: 5.7%-6.4%.
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher.
3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
- Description: Measurement of blood glucose levels while fasting and two hours after drinking a sugary solution.
- Values:
- Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL two hours after the drink.
- Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL two hours after drinking.
- Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher two hours after drinking.
4. Random blood sugar
- Description: Measure your blood glucose levels at any time of the day, regardless of when your last meal was.
- Values:
- Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher, if you have symptoms of diabetes.
When to see a doctor
It is important to consult a doctor if you experience the symptoms listed above, especially if they persist for a prolonged period. Furthermore, those with a family history of diabetes or other risk factors (such as obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol) should have regular check-ups.
Emergency symptoms
If you experience severe symptoms such as confusion, fainting, difficulty breathing, or severe abdominal pain, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention, as they may indicate a hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic crisis.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Prevention
- Balanced diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Physical exercise: Get regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
- Healthy weight: Maintain a healthy body weight through diet and exercise.
- Monitoring: Have your blood sugar checked regularly, especially if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors.
Management
- Medicines: Follow your doctor’s prescriptions for taking antidiabetic medications or insulin.
- Diet and lifestyle: Continue to eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise.
- Monitoring: Check your blood sugar levels regularly to better manage the condition.
- Education: Participate in diabetes education programs to learn how to manage the disease effectively.
Conclusion
Recognize the symptoms of diabetes and getting an early diagnosis is essential to effectively managing the condition and preventing long-term complications. If you suspect you have diabetes, it is important to see a doctor for a complete evaluation and appropriate diagnostic testing. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and following your doctor’s advice can help keep your blood sugar levels under control and improve your quality of life.
Final advice
- Awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of diabetes and monitor any changes in your health.
- Prevention: Take preventative measures through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and monitoring your blood sugar.
- Support: Seek medical and educational support to effectively manage diabetes and improve your quality of life.
FAQ on How do you know if you have diabetes?
1. What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
The main symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, frequent infections, and slow healing of wounds.
2. How is diabetes diagnosed?
Diabetes is diagnosed through laboratory tests, including fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and random blood glucose.
3. When should I see a doctor if I suspect I have diabetes?
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms of diabetes or if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious symptoms such as confusion, fainting, or difficulty breathing.
4. Is it possible to prevent diabetes?
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and regularly monitoring your blood sugar, can help prevent diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes.
