Symptoms of Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2)
The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of disease, however, in general the first signs and symptoms of diabetes are frequent tiredness, excessive hunger, sudden weight loss, intense thirst, a strong urge to go to the bathroom and dark skin. of folds, such as in the armpit and neck, for example.
Therefore, if the first signs and symptoms of diabetes appear, it is recommended to consult a general practitioner, endocrinologist or pediatrician, in the case of children, since in this way it is possible to confirm diabetes and start the most appropriate treatment.
The diagnosis of diabetes is made through blood tests that evaluate the amount of circulating sugar, such as fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, and glycosylated hemoglobin.
Type 2 diabetes
The main symptoms of type 2 diabetes are:
- Excessive thirst;
- Dry mouth:
- Excessive fatigue;
- Weakness;
- Increased appetite;
- Excessive urination and frequent urge to urinate;
- Weight loss without apparent cause;
- More delayed wound healing.
In the presence of these symptoms, it is important to consult the endocrinologist to perform an evaluation, confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
Type 2 diabetes is related to insulin resistance, that is, insulin is not able to carry circulating glucose into the cells, causing large amounts of sugar in the blood. This type of diabetes occurs more frequently in people who are overweight, obese and/or who eat a diet rich in sugar and fat.
What happens in this situation is that this hormone does not efficiently transport the glucose molecules present in the blood into the cells. Treatment for this type of diabetes can be done with the use of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents, in addition to regular physical activity and a balanced diet.
Also Read:
- 12 symptoms of childhood diabetes (and how to diagnose)
- Diabetic foot: What it is, Symptoms and Treatment
- Prediabetes Diet: Allowed and Prohibited foods
- Diabetes: Types, Symptoms and Treatment
Diabetes Type 1
The main symptoms of type 1 diabetes are:
- Frequent urge to urinate;
- Weight loss without apparent cause;
- Excessive sleep;
- Itch;
- Excessive hunger;
- Very thirsty;
- Vomiting, in some cases;
- Dizziness;
- Difficulty breathing, in some cases.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce insulin, so the body is not able to use the sugar present in the blood. This type of diabetes is usually diagnosed during childhood, however, it can also be identified in early adulthood.
How the diagnosis of diabetes is made?
Diabetes can be diagnosed through some tests, such as:
- Finger prick test : normal up to 200 mg/dL at any time of the day;
- Fasting glucose: normal up to 99 mg/dL;
- Oral glucose tolerance test : normal up to 140 mg/dL 2 hours after the exam and 199 mg/dL up to 4 hours;
- Glycosylated hemoglobin: normal up to 5.7%.
Everyone should have at least 1 of these tests once a year to see if their blood sugar is high. Anyone of any age can have type 2 diabetes, even without cases in the family, but the chances increase when there is a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle.