HOW TO SPOT EARLY SIGNS OF DIABETES -

Diabetes can develop slowly, with signs that are easy to miss.

But catching it early can help you avoid serious complications later on.

Here’s what to look out for:

– Feeling thirsty all the time, no matter how much water you drink.

– Urinating more often than usual, especially at night.

– Losing weight without trying, even when you’re eating enough.

– Feeling tired all the time, even after resting.

– Constant hunger, even after meals.

– Blurry vision that comes and goes.

– Cuts, wounds, or infections that take a long time to heal.

– A tingling or numb feeling in your hands or feet.

WHY DOES THESE SYMPTOMS HAPPEN?

Diabetes causes high blood sugar, which affects how your body works. For example:

– Your kidneys try to get rid of the extra sugar, which makes you thirsty and causes frequent urination.

– Your body starts using fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss and hunger.

– High blood sugar can damage your eyes, nerves, and ability to heal.

IGNORING THESE SIGNS WON’T BE FAIR

It can be risky. If diabetes is not managed, it can lead to:

– Heart attacks or strokes.
– Kidney damage, which might require dialysis.
– Vision problems or even blindness.
– Nerve damage, causing pain or loss of feeling in your limbs.
– Serious infections, especially in the feet, which could lead to amputation.

SOME PEOPLE IS AT A HIGHER RISK

You may be more likely to develop it if:

– Someone in your family has diabetes.

– You are overweight or don’t exercise much.

– You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

– You had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).

– You have conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).

DON’T WAIT, ACT

Don’t wait to act. If you notice these symptoms or have risk factors, talk to a doctor. Simple tests, like a blood sugar check or an HbA1c test, can help diagnose diabetes early.

BUT YOU CAN PREVENT/DELAY DIABETES

Small changes can make a big difference:
– Keep a healthy weight.
– Eat more vegetables, whole grains, and foods with fiber. Cut down on sugary and processed foods.
– Stay active, 30 minutes of walking or other exercise each day can help.
– Manage stress, as it can affect your blood sugar levels.
– Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control.

Know this, diabetes will not take over your life.

If you catch it early, make healthy choices, and follow medical advice, you can stay healthy and avoid complications.