What are the 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 frequent urination. This occurs because high blood glucose levels lead to increased glucose in the urine, which draws more water out of the body, resulting in increased urine production. Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, often accompanies polyuria as the body attempts to compensate for the loss of fluids .
Weight Loss and Polyphagia
Unintentional weight loss is another common symptom, particularly in type 1 diabetes. This happens because the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy when it cannot use glucose effectively. Polyphagia, or increased hunger, can also occur as the body tries to compensate for the lack of energy .
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a frequent symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause the lens of the eye to swell, leading to changes in vision. This symptom can fluctuate with blood sugar levels and may improve with better glucose control .
Acute and Life-Threatening Symptoms
Ketoacidosis and Hyperosmolar Syndrome
In cases of uncontrolled diabetes, acute and life-threatening conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) can occur. DKA is more common in type 1 diabetes and involves the buildup of ketones in the blood, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. HHS, more common in type 2 diabetes, involves extremely high blood sugar levels without significant ketone buildup, leading to severe dehydration and altered mental status .
Long-Term Complications and Symptoms
Retinopathy and Nephropathy
Long-term complications of diabetes include diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss, and diabetic nephropathy, which can progress to kidney failure. These complications result from chronic hyperglycemia causing damage to small blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys .
Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, characterized by numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities, is a common complication. Autonomic neuropathy can affect various body systems, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., gastroparesis), genitourinary symptoms (e.g., bladder dysfunction), cardiovascular symptoms (e.g., orthostatic hypotension), and sexual dysfunction .
Cardiovascular Disease
Patients with diabetes have an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. This is due to the combined effects of hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia commonly seen in diabetes .
Other Symptoms
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and bloating are also prevalent among diabetic patients. These symptoms can be due to autonomic neuropathy affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
Cognitive and Psychological Symptoms
Some patients may experience cognitive symptoms like difficulty speaking, confusion, and trouble remembering. These symptoms are less common but can significantly impact quality of life.
Conclusion
Diabetes presents with a wide range of symptoms, from common signs like polyuria and polydipsia to severe complications such as ketoacidosis and cardiovascular disease. Early recognition and management of these symptoms are crucial for preventing long-term complications and improving patient outcomes.
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