Diabetes- Lesser-Known Signs to Watch Out For!
With this kind of prevalence, it is natural for people to be familiar with the disease as we see it among many of our close family members. As the burden of this disease has increased, we have learned to associate it with some classic signs like excessive thirst, frequent urination, as well as unexplained weight loss. Most people tend to visit a doctor once they notice these signs but what if there are more mild signs of diabetes?
Some signs can be subtle and easily mistaken for other health issues. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and potentially serious complications. Diabetes, a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar, can also manifest in a surprising variety of ways. Here, we explore some lesser-known signs that might indicate you need to see a doctor for a blood sugar check.
Understanding the cause of Diabetes: The Endocrine system
Imagine a vast network of couriers constantly delivering messages throughout a city. This intricate network, the endocrine system, uses chemical messengers called hormones to regulate everything from your metabolism to mood. These hormones, produced by glands, travel through your bloodstream like tiny messengers, controlling various bodily functions. Any disruption in this finely tuned system can lead to a domino effect on your health, resulting in a condition known as hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalance occurs when the production, secretion, or reception of hormones is disrupted. This throws these crucial chemical messengers out of whack, disrupting cellular function and causing a cascade of effects on metabolism, reproduction, and overall health.
In the case of diabetes, the primary culprit in this hormonal imbalance is insulin. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, acts like a key, unlocking cells to allow glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream to enter and be used for energy. When your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or becomes resistant to its effects (type 2 diabetes), glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to a state of hyperglycemia. This chronic high blood sugar is the hallmark of diabetes and can wreak havoc on your body in numerous ways, some more obvious than others.
Unveiling the hidden clues: Unconventional signs of Diabetes
1. Slow Healing Wounds and Skin Issues
High blood sugar can impair circulation and weaken the immune system, making it harder for wounds to heal properly [1]. Diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage caused by chronically high blood sugar, can also lead to a reduced ability to feel pain in the feet, potentially causing unnoticed injuries that become slow-healing wounds [2]. Additionally, diabetes can contribute to skin conditions like boils, carbuncles (clusters of boils), and fungal infections [2].
Pay Attention: If you experience any unexplained skin issues or find that minor cuts and scrapes take an unusually long time to heal, consult your doctor because early detection and treatment of wounds can prevent complications like infections.
2. Blurred Vision
Blurry vision can be a temporary inconvenience caused by eyestrain or fatigue. However, for diabetics, it could signal a serious complication called diabetic retinopathy [3]. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive part of the eye. As a result, one can develop blurred vision, floaters (seeing spots or cobwebs), and even vision loss. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.
Take Action: If you experience any changes in your vision, schedule an appointment with your doctor or an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of preventing vision loss.
3. Fatigue and Difficulty Sleeping
Feeling constantly tired or having trouble sleeping can be symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes [4]. Chronic high blood sugar can interfere with your body’s ability to use energy from food, leaving you feeling drained. Additionally, frequent urination at night, another symptom of diabetes, can disrupt your sleep cycle.
What to Do: If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue or sleep problems, discuss it with your doctor. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
4. Hearing Problems
Hearing loss may seem unconnected to diabetes, but research suggests a link. High blood sugar can damage nerves throughout the body, including those involved in hearing [5]. These damaged nerves can’t transmit sound signals as effectively, leading to hearing loss. If you’re noticing a decline in your hearing, it’s worth mentioning to your doctor, especially if you have other risk factors for diabetes.
Be Proactive: If you suspect hearing loss, schedule a hearing test with an audiologist. Early diagnosis and management of hearing loss can significantly improve your quality of life.
5. Gum Disease
Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, is more common in people with diabetes [6]. Unchecked inflammation from gum disease can worsen blood sugar control, creating a vicious cycle. High blood sugar levels can also make it harder for your gums to heal from infection.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups are crucial for both oral and overall health. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease and improve blood sugar control.
Being proactive is the key
Early detection and treatment of diabetes are crucial for preventing serious complications. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, even if they seem mild, consult your doctor. A simple blood sugar test can help identify any underlying issues. Remember, knowledge is power, and taking charge of your health is the best way to live a long and fulfilling life.
