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Do You Have Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes?

Diabetes has become more and more common both in children and adults.  As a result, there are more and varied treatments of the disease including a variety  of medications and suggestions regarding diet and exercise, which can often help control diabetes with little or no medication.

There are some specific signs and symptoms to be aware of if you think it is possible that you might have diabetes.  If you have any combination of these symptoms you need to check with your doctor to see if you have diabetes. 

Three main symptoms are usually classic symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes.  The symptoms are frequent urination, increased or excessive thirst (resulting in a higher liquid intake) and increased appetite.  Sometimes symptoms develop quickly over a period of weeks or months, especially in children and young people.  Another symptom may be weight loss – even if the individual is eating well and eating more than usual.  Excessive fatigue that cannot be overcome can be a symptom, as well.

In Type 2 diabetes, the symptoms can be the same, however, they develop much more slowly and subtly and may not even be noticeable.  This is often why people are not aware that they could be developing or have developed the disease, and do not realize they have diabetes until the disease is more advanced. 

Other issues that can help identify diabetes are dehydration (even though the person is drinking extra liquids), glucose in urine (determined by a urine test), vision changes – especially blurred vision – which can come on gradually (usually with Type 2) or rapidly (usually with Type 1).  You should deal with the situation immediately to avoid permanent damage, and sometimes urea leading to very bad breath, rapid, deep breathing, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

If you or your child/teen is experiencing any of these symptoms or a combination of them, see your doctor.  With a few tests the doctor can determine if the problem is diabetes, as opposed to another medical issue or simply an imbalance.  The doctor will then determine a treatment plan which your symptoms, which could include diet changes and/or medication or both.

With the right treatment, you can feel better now and live a long, healthy and normal life.