Symptoms of diabetes
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Symptoms of Diabetes
Common Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Polyuria and Polydipsia
One of the hallmark symptoms of diabetes is polyuria, which is the frequent need to urinate. This is often accompanied by polydipsia, an increased thirst and fluid intake. These symptoms are primarily due to the body's attempt to eliminate excess glucose through urine, leading to dehydration and increased thirst .
Weight Loss and Polyphagia
Unintentional weight loss is another common symptom, often seen despite an increase in appetite, known as polyphagia. This occurs because the body is unable to utilize glucose for energy effectively, leading to the breakdown of fat and muscle for fuel .
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a frequent complaint among individuals with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause the lens of the eye to swell, leading to temporary changes in vision .
Additional Symptoms
Fatigue and Weakness
Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to persistent fatigue and weakness. This is due to the body's inability to efficiently convert glucose into energy, leaving individuals feeling constantly tired.
Susceptibility to Infections
People with diabetes are more prone to infections, particularly of the skin and urinary tract. This increased susceptibility is due to the impaired immune response associated with high blood sugar levels .
Impairment of Growth
In children and adolescents, diabetes can lead to impaired growth. This is often a result of chronic hyperglycemia affecting the body's ability to utilize nutrients effectively .
Acute and Long-term Complications
Ketoacidosis and Hyperosmolar Syndrome
Acute, life-threatening complications of uncontrolled diabetes include diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS). DKA is characterized by high blood sugar levels, ketone production, and acidosis, while HHS involves extreme hyperglycemia without significant ketone production .
Long-term Organ Damage
Long-term complications of diabetes can affect various organs. These include retinopathy (potential loss of vision), nephropathy (leading to renal failure), and neuropathy (causing foot ulcers, amputations, and Charcot joints). Autonomic neuropathy can also lead to gastrointestinal, genitourinary, cardiovascular symptoms, and sexual dysfunction .
Cardiovascular Disease
Patients with diabetes have an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular, peripheral arterial, and cerebrovascular diseases. Hypertension and abnormalities in lipoprotein metabolism are also common in individuals with diabetes .
Rare and Over-represented Symptoms
Cognitive and Neurological Symptoms
Some less common but significant symptoms include cognitive impairments such as difficulty speaking, feeling confused, trouble remembering, and drowsiness. These symptoms are often underreported but can significantly impact the quality of life.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms, including heartburn, shortness of breath, and swelling, are also prevalent among diabetes patients. These symptoms can be particularly challenging to manage and may require specialized treatment approaches.
Conclusion
Diabetes manifests through a variety of symptoms, ranging from common signs like polyuria and polydipsia to more severe complications such as ketoacidosis and long-term organ damage. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of the disease.
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