Is Your Blood Sugar Out Of Control?

Diabetes develops when the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin produced, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. Early detection of diabetes can help prevent complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems. However, knowing when to get blood sugar levels checked can be confusing. Knowing the warning signs of this chronic condition helps reduce the risk of long-term damage.

1. Overactive bladder

Frequent urination, or polyuria, is a hallmark symptom of diabetes. When blood sugar levels are too high, the kidneys struggle to filter and reabsorb the excess glucose. Instead, the glucose spills into the urine, drawing water from the body and increasing urine production. This can lead to a constant need to urinate, even during the night, disrupting sleep. While occasional increases in urination can be due to factors like drinking more fluids or certain medications, persistent polyuria should not be ignored.

2. Feeling parched

Excessive thirst, or polydipsia, often goes hand-in-hand with frequent urination. As the body loses more fluids through increased urination, it triggers a dehydration response, making individuals affected feel constantly thirsty. This creates a vicious cycle. Drinking more leads to more urination and then increased thirst. This symptom is particularly concerning if it persists over several days or weeks.

3. Dropping pounds without effort

Unexplained weight loss is a common warning sign, especially in type 1 diabetes, though weight loss can also occur in type 2 diabetes. When the body cannot use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin or insulin resistance, the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel. This process, called ketosis, leads to rapid and unintentional weight loss. Weight loss may also be accompanied by increased hunger.

4. Low energy levels

Fatigue is a common but often overlooked symptom of diabetes. When cells cannot access glucose for energy due to insulin issues, individuals affected may feel constantly tired, sluggish, or mentally foggy. Additionally, fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect mood, leading to irritability, difficulty concentrating, or even feelings of depression. If getting enough sleep is not enough or energy levels are down, consulting a healthcare professional is advised.

5. Changes in vision

Blurred vision is a lesser-known but major symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in the eyes to swell, changing the shape and making focusing difficult. This symptom is often temporary and may improve once blood sugar levels are stabilized. However, if left untreated, diabetes can lead to more serious eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, or glaucoma.

Take control of your health

Diabetes is a manageable condition, but early detection allows for timely intervention. By recognizing the warning signs and getting blood sugar levels checked, irreversible damage to the body can be avoided. Lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, can reduce the risk or help manage the condition if already diagnosed.