5 Signs of Type 2 Diabetes You May Overlook
It's not uncommon to spend several years living with type 2 diabetes and not even know you have the condition. Despite regular check-ups with your doctor, feelings of well-being, and a lack of "classic" symptoms (like frequent urination or intense thirst), there may be signs of type 2 diabetes you're overlooking.
If any of the following symptoms are a problem for you, it might be time to see your physician.
1. Anxiety and Irritability
Diabetes not only affects the body but also the brain. Fluctuating glucose levels can bring about all kinds of mental symptoms, particularly irritability, "edginess" and anxiety.
Severe mood swings might have to do with your blood sugar, so pay attention to how you feel when you eat. Does your mood change? Do you feel better after a meal? If so, you might have a blood sugar condition or full-blown type 2 diabetes.
2. Chronic Skin Issues
People with diabetes are prone to various types of skin problems, whether it's ulcers, fungal infections, rashes or boils.
If you have reoccurring or chronic skin issues - especially conditions that take a long time to clear up or that don't respond well to over-the-counter treatments - it might be a sign of diabetes.
3. Weight Loss
While many people associate type 2 diabetes with obesity, sudden weight loss is actually a hallmark symptom of the condition - especially at the beginning as the disease takes shape.
With extreme blood sugar fluctuations, the body begins to break down protein in your muscles and eliminate excess sugar from the kidneys, which can result in rapid weight loss that is not healthy.
4. UTIs and Yeast Infections
Diabetes can increase your susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections. Women, in particular, may notice a pattern of urinary tract infections or yeast infections if they have type 2 diabetes.
5. Vision Changes
While many people know that diabetes can cause blindness, some may not realize that vision changes can be subtle and occur early on with the condition.
For example, if your vision has gradually become more blurry or if you experience floaters or flashes of light in the eyes, this can be a sign of high blood sugar.
While vision problems can often be reversed with blood sugar management, not treating diabetes can cause permanent damage to the eyes and vision loss.
Source: Health.com
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