Type 2 diabetes manifests itself as an affliction where the body no longer has the capacity to utilize glucose within the blood. There are at least a dozen signs of type 2 diabetes. The ones highlighted below are the most important to look out for.
Blurry Vision
This typically occurs in situations where diabetes is not being managed because a person is not aware they have it. Blurred vision usually occurs when blood sugar levels suddenly spike, affecting the miniature blood vessels within the eyes, making fluid seep inside their lens. While the blurriness will resolve itself in the early stages, as the disease progresses patients will be at risk of diabetic retinopathy or complete blindness.
Energy Loss
Energy loss, which is also known as fatigue, is a classic diabetes symptom, but it should not be confused with the usual tiredness that comes after a hard day at work, in school, or at the gym. Researchers believe that it results from fluctuating levels in blood glucose which doesn’t provide enough for one’s body to utilize as energy. If you find that you’re tired for no apparent reason, even after getting a good night’s rest, this could be a cause for concern.
Dark Patches Appear on The Skin
Dark or velvety colored patches which appear suddenly within the skin folds could be acanthosis nigricans, another indication of diabetes type 2. The patches will usually appear in areas such as the groin, armpits, and neck and the affected skin might become thicker. The patches result from excess insulin levels inside the blood.
Excessive Urination
This phenomenon is called polyuria and should not be confused with the excessive urination which comes from drinking a lot of beverages. It comes from the body’s blood sugar levels being too high, which spills over into the urine. The kidneys are unable to handle the glucose levels, and as a consequence will transfer it into the urine, making you have to visit the toilet more often, especially at night. If you notice that you’re urinating a lot during the evening despite drinking a normal level of liquid, you should consider taking a diabetes test.
Unexpected Weight Loss
In a day and age when many people are obese, losing weight is usually seen as being a good thing. However, if you’re experiencing a sudden weight loss despite not exercising or following a diet program, this might be a warning sign of diabetes, as well as other conditions. If type 2 diabetes is indeed the culprit, the weight loss will be the result of having excessive glucose within the body that is transferred into the urine and can culminate in weight loss even in situations where you’re consuming more food to satiate your hunger.
If you’ve experienced any of the signs above, especially in combination, it is highly recommended to get tested for diabetes or use an OKRA Pro: Bluetooth Glucose Meter. While the condition is manageable if caught during the early stages, those who do not get tested or treated will eventually develop complications that can prove life-threatening.