Like many common health problems, diabetes is more easily treated – and possibly even reversible – when caught early. Here are some of the common warning signs to look out for before visiting Dr. Wadhwa at Germantown Primary HealthCare.
Diabetes results in excess glucose building up in the blood. Sugar normally is carried out of the body through urine, but an excessive amount of it causes the kidneys to work harder to filter it out. With the increased amount of sugar, the body will produce more urine, which will require more trips to the bathroom.
Frequent urination can cause dehydration, which can mean that, no matter how much water you drink, you can’t seem to quench your thirst. Additionally, the excess sugar in the bloodstream pulls fluids from your tissues, which can dry you out even more. If you notice this sign, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Type 2 diabetes starves the cells of sugar because it’s stuck in the bloodstream. As a result, the cells send out the signal that they’re hungry, which tricks the brain into eating more.
Sudden, unexplained weight loss is another sign of diabetes as some of the sugar from food consumed is excreted in the urine and so the calories don’t “count,” or, more specifically is not absorbed by the body.
The excess sugar in the blood pulls fluids from the tissues. This includes the lenses of your eyes, which can blur your vision. Blood vessels in the retina can also be damaged by high blood sugar, causing diabetic retinopathy.
The dehydration caused by frequent urination and the lack of sugar absorption by the body’s cells can cause you to feel weak and tired.
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a family member, be sure to see Dr. Wadhwa at Germantown Primary HealthCare as soon as possible. Blood tests will be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis to prevent any future, more serious, health problems. Do not hesitate to call our office today!
