Diabetes is a condition which is characterized by an increase in blood sugar levels that is caused by the lack of insulin present in the body. Insulin is a substance released by the pancreas, and serves as the mechanism of the body to balance out the presence of excessive sugar.

When there is too much sugar in the body, symptoms occur such as frequent urination and an intensified feeling of hunger may occur.

When there is a lack of insulin produced in the body, the possible reasons include the body being unresponsive to the insulin (insulin resistance), or the body is incapable of producing insulin due to the damaged cells of the pancreas. In these two instances, type 2 diabetes is at risk, wherein the body does not respond to insulin or the body has a really low insulin level.

Diabetes symptoms are a signal that you need to see your physician and be checked out. When you have Type 1, the symptoms will come very quickly. In Type 2, the symptoms come on quite slowly. Some people never really notice any symptoms at all.

Diabetes Symptoms Type 1

Type 1 diabetes symptoms can include a large weight loss even though you are eating a lot more. You will also feel incredible mental fatigue. Frequent urination is a sign of diabetes. You may find yourself much hungrier as well. You may be unable to quench your thirst. You will also feel crushing fatigue and find yourself irritable. Type 1 diabetes can cause your breath to smell sweet, like fruit with an acetone undertone. Nausea and vomiting are also associated with this illness.

Diabetes Symptoms Type 2

Type 2 diabetes symptoms include all of those seen in Type 1. In addition, you will experience frequent infections. If you get a cut or a bruise, it will take a prolonged period of time to heal.

Bladder and skin infections are frequent, as well as infections of the gums. Your vision may be blurred. Your hands and your feet or one or the other may be numb or tingle. Impotency can be a signal of diabetes. So can itchy skin in the groin area. If you have recurrent yeast infections, a test for diabetes may be in order. But its also possible for someone with Type 2 diabetes to have a total absence of symptoms.

Some of the diabetes symptoms of either type are more subtle. You may also see these symptoms in unmanaged diabetes. For example, agitation and inattention are symptoms. Confusion and blurry vision can indicate the presence of diabetes or unmanaged blood sugar. Muscle cramps and aches can be present.

Typical symptoms of this metabolic disorder:

  • a gradual change in vision, usually characterized by blurriness
  • an incessant feeling of hunger or thirst, or excessive appetite
  • a feeling of lightheadedness (typically after consuming meals)
  • a recurring numbness of the extremities, usually of the hands and feet

Sometimes, these symptoms may also be attributed to other types of diseases, but it is still best to check your condition to get a prior diagnosis of your state. Here are some preventive measures that you can follow:

  • eat food with less carbohydrates – you can consider reducing your carbohydrate intake and replace your meals with lean meat, fruits, and vegetables instead
  • exercise on a regular basis – for type 2 diabetes, it was found that proper exercise induces the production of insulin and helps the body use it by triggering the metabolic processes of the body
  • have a healthier lifestyle – aside from food and exercise, you can opt for healthy living by drinking less alcoholic beverages (especially beer) and quit smoking

The American Diabetes Association suggests that you seek the opinion of a doctor to verify your condition, and also to get the appropriate treatment you need in case you indeed have type 2 diabetes. In any case, make sure to be always vigilant when it comes to your health.