Going through the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes discussed in this article will help you find out if you are vulnerable to the various complications associated with this condition.
Over the last few decades, millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Studies reveal that approximately one-third of those suffering from this chronic condition are not even aware of the fact that they are suffering from it. This condition is triggered in two circumstances: (i) the pancreas don’t produce the amount of insulin required to maintain normal glucose levels and (ii) the cells refuse to accept the available insulin, which eventually joins the bloodstream.
If ignored for a long time, this chronic condition can affect various organs, including heart and kidneys, and hamper some of the basic functions of the body. So it is very important to diagnose the condition at the earliest and initiate its treatment.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can be attributed to abnormally high blood sugar levels in the body, which are either caused due to deficiency of insulin or resistance of the cells to the available insulin. Though the researchers are yet to find out what triggers this deficiency or resistance, it is assumed that the trigger factor is related to obesity and inactive lifestyle.
Other than these two factors, some studies also suggest that genetics play a crucial role when it comes to diabetes mellitus type 2. Studies also relate it to various medical conditions, such as hypertension, chronic pancreatitis, cancer, aging, etc., and use of certain medication for a prolonged duration.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms of this condition, which range from persistent hunger to abnormal weight loss, have a crucial role to play when it comes to diagnosis. The problem though, is that the symptoms are very generic, such that the person may not even take a note of them until the condition worsens drastically. Given below are the details of some of the most prominent symptoms of this form of diabetes.
- The increase in sugar levels in the blood stream will soak fluids from the tissues, thus making the individual feel thirsty again and again. He will also experience a frequent urge to urinate, as a result of consuming water continuously.
- Sugar (glucose) is one of the most important sources of energy in the body, and lack of the same in cells will trigger hunger every now and then.
- Owing to the fact that there would be no sugar in the cells to provide energy, the affected person will feel tired and irritable continuously.
- In spite of eating frequently, the individual will lose weight, as lack of glucose in the body will hamper the metabolism process, and the body will have to rely on fat stores for energy.
- The fluid in the lenses of the eyes will be soaked as a result of excess sugar in the bloodstream, and this will, in turn, result in blurred vision for the individual.
- Lack of proper nourishment to the body will also affect the immune system, thus making the person prone to various infections.
- The healing capacity of the body will also be hampered to a significant extent, and therefore, wounds will take considerable time to heal.
Besides these symptoms, the person will also experience a tingling sensation or numbness in hands and feet, seeing flashes of light, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, etc.
If any of these symptoms are observed, you should promptly consult a doctor. Early detection of this chronic condition can help the person take various steps to ensure that it doesn’t worsen. Its treatment most often revolves around identification of the underlying cause and working on it. The doctor may also recommend diabetes medication or insulin therapy. The patient will be advised to follow a strictly healthy lifestyle, marked by proper nutrition and regular exercise.
