Living With Your Diabetes Diagnosis

Diabetes can and often does go undiagnosed because the symptoms can seem harmless and oftentimes normal. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes. If you notice any possible diabetes symptoms, contact your doctor.

Type 1
Between 5 percent and 10 percent of people with diabetes have Type 1. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the insufficient production by the pancreas of the hormone known as insulin. Type 1 diabetes is usually recognized in childhood or early adolescence, often in association with an illness (such as a virus) or injury. Type 1 diabetes symptoms may seem harmless at first. Some diabetes symptoms include:

•  Frequent urination
•  Excessive thirst
•  Extreme hunger
•  Unusual weight loss
•  Increased Fatigue
•  Irritability
•  Blurry vision

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes are usually dramatic and come on suddenly.

Type 2
Type 2 is associated with insulin resistance rather than the lack of insulin like seen in Type 1. Type 2 Diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes tends to be hereditary in contrast to Type 1 diabetes. Sometimes, people with Type 2 diabetes don't notice any symptoms or the symptoms are experienced gradually. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes are often subtle and may be attributed to aging or obesity. The most common symptoms of type 2 diabetes are:

• Greater need to urinate
• Frequent hunger or thirst
• Weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Tingling/numbness in hands or feet
• Feeling tired
• Very dry skin
• Slow-healing sores
• Infections.

Since the inception of diabetes diagnosis, doctors have diagnosed it based on abnormally high levels or urination, thirst and appetite. Typically your doctor will make a diagnosis of diabetes based upon your symptoms and the results of a simple blood test. Diagnosis is often prompted with the onset of the symptoms. People who think they might have diabetes must visit a physician for diagnosis.

Understanding possible diabetes symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment - and a lifetime of better health. If you find yourself experiencing many of these symptoms on a consistent, long-term basis, you should visit a doctor to be tested for diabetes.

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