Understanding The Early Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Unfortunately, it is very common for the symptoms of diabetes to be confused with signs of other chronic diseases. In most cases, Type 2 Diabetes does not generally present itself until the age of 40. As of late however, more and more children are being diagnosed with this chronic illness. The root cause is believed to be the high obesity rate of children today as well as the lack of physical activity in their daily lives.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is the most commonly diagnosed, and is non insulin dependent (NIDDM). It is best controlled by diet and increased exercise. If not properly managed, complications such as renal and cardiovascular disease can result.
With Type 2 diabetes symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed for years causing a delay in treatment. It is characterized by a resistance to the insulin that is being produced by the islet cells located in the pancreas.
In An Emergency:
People who are unaware they have type 2 diabetes are at an extreme risk of experiencing a diabetic emergency event when their symptoms become severe. Additionally, hypoglycemia or low blood sugar can occur which is the exact opposite of diabetes mellitus.
There are two types of a diabetic emergency:
The first type of diabetic emergency is called hyperglycemia. This will occur when there is not enough insulin and too much glucose in the blood. An onset of hyperglycemia is commonly caused by over eating, lack of physical activity and not taking the proper amount of insulin. This event requires insulin for treatment. If gone untreated, the sufferer can lapse into a diabetic coma.
Hypoglycemia is the second type of diabetic emergency event. This episode will occur when there is too much insulin and not enough sugar in the blood which can lead to diabetic shock. Common contributing factors include too much exercise, not enough food intake and injecting too much insulin. Someone experiencing this type of event is in need of sugar.
Steps to take for either emergency situation are the same. Getting the person something to eat or drink such as orange juice, milk or a candy bar can significantly reduce symptoms followed by seeking medical help.
What are the early signs?
Elevated urinary output: Occurs due to elevated glucose levels and the body’s attempt to get rid of it. Excessive thirst: Is due to the frequent urination, causing dehydration Impaired vision: Vision may be blurred due to damage to the ocular vascular system Feelings of hunger: Caused by excessive insulin that is not being used properly Lethargy: Is related to the elevated glucose levels Erectile dysfunction Frequent bacterial and fungal infections Slow healing wounds:
If you are experiencing some or all of the signs and symptoms, the next step is visiting your health care provider for proper testing to determine the cause. Types of testing include:
Blood glucose test: Normal values for glucose is around 110 mg/dl. A reading of 126 mg/dl or more is indicative of diabetes. If your blood sugars are high on two occasions of testing, the diagnosis is most likely diabetes.
Other testing includes:
A Fasting Plasma Glucose An Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) A Random Plasma Glucose Test – No fasting is involved.
The reason for having to fast for eight hours for many of the tests is that eating tends to raise glucose levels. In order to receive a true and accurate reading, going without food for eight hours is necessary.
Being knowledable of the signs and symptoms combined with being aware of your personal risk factors for diabetes is a highly beneficial step in seeking early treatment and preventing the possibility of severe complications.
Barb Hicks is a licensed registered nurse and featured health writer on Clivir.com where she shares her experience and knowledge about Diabetes and Diet and Is Diabetes Curable.