Did you know over 60 million people are affected by diabetes in India alone? And this is not just in adults but children too! Because of this widespread prevalence almost everyone now knows that for diabetes a healthy diet and regular exercise is a must. However, there are several other factors that need to be considered by people with diabetes to ensure good health. The good news is that your body will find ways to tell you if something is wrong. So let’s see how closely you can pay attention!
Following are certain crucial symptoms that people with diabetes must pay close attention to. In case you notice any of these symptoms, please do not ignore them but immediately inform your healthcare provider.
Yes we all know this summer heat is intense and drinking more water is normal. However, excessive thirst and frequent urination is a serious indicator of high sugar levels specially at night. So why not get your sugar levels checked and monitor it closely for a bit. In case you see any changes, be sure to alert your doctor.
This happens in diabetes even though there is increased sugar in the blood the cells are starved of energy. Insulin helps the glucose enter the cells and since insulin is deficient the sugar cant enter the cells so there is increased hunger.
In case one feels that the vision is blurry or less focussed and sharp, be sure to get your blood sugar levels tested and visit the eye doctor. High blood sugar levels also affect one’s vision and can lead to blurriness or seeing spots (known as floaters). In people with diabetes, vision problems can be a sign of diabetic retinopathy which affects the blood vessels in the eye.
It’s so common to hear of people with diabetes complaining about leg pain. And with restless leg syndrome spread all over the internet, many just assume that to be their case. Also foot rashes, sores or infections are blamed on the summer heat or footwear. However, these are important warning signs being sent by your body!
A lot of these can be caused by decreased blood circulation due to clogged arteries and nerve damage. Some people may also experience pain in their legs or sensations of tingling and numbness caused due to blocked arteries. Along with creating complications in the legs, this can overtime lead to serious heart problems as well. It is essential to report even the smallest rash or infection to the doctor instantly as left untreated this could lead to severe leg problems including amputations in severe cases.
Have you recently changed your toothpaste or observed yourself using more breath mints? Well, the mouth odour or Infections in the gum such as swollen or bleeding gums could be linked to your diabetic condition. These are indicative of damage in the nerves and blood vessels, and may be due to abnormal levels of insulin. Uncontrolled sugar levels in the body for a longer duration cam lead to periodontal disease. Be sure to inform the doctor instantly if any of these symptoms occur.
We all know that maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is crucial for people with diabetes. However there are chances that any change in your diet, exercise routine or medication can lead to low sugars. In cases of low blood sugar, you may feel sweaty, light-headed and unsettled. Don’t dismiss these symptoms as just feeling unwell.
Diabetics may also suffer from depression like symptoms such as sadness, lack of enthusiasm, low energy. These are not symptoms of weakness but an indication for help. Talk to your doctor for advice or contact a counsellor for better management.
This is a very common problem in diabetics-both men and women. Problems like erectile dysfunction, low libido, painful intercourse occur because of nerve and blood vessel damage. Balanitis in men and vaginal infections in women are because of high sugar in urine.
If you have any of these symptoms better to get yourself checked out.