The pancreas is the organ that produces insulin, among other vital hormones for body processes. Insulin is one of the essential hormones in the body and the key driver in delivering glucose to the cells to use for energy. When there is an insufficient supply of insulin or the body is resistant to this supply, glucose can’t enter the cells and accumulate in the blood. In turn, the condition can lead to type 2 diabetes.
If you have this condition, you need to look for assistance or a doctor’s opinion on how to reverse it. In places like Provo, several clinics treat diabetes. Some of the most important ways to curb the condition are through lifestyle modification, diet, and exercise.
However, early detection of the disease is important, since determining it early can improve treatment and prognosis. What are the things to look out for in type 2 diabetes then?
Frequent Thirst
Frequent thirst, or medically termed as polydipsia, happens when sugar accumulates in the blood. The urinary system, particularly the kidneys, works to get rid of high blood sugar levels. Hence, it pulls fluid from the tissues, making the person dehydrated. As a result, the patient becomes thirsty now and then.
Frequent Urination
Polyuria or frequent urination is a common symptom of diabetes. Peeing a lot is the body’s way of getting rid of extra sugar in the system. Frequent urination is also an effect of constant thirst since you always drink to quench the thirst.
Constant Hunger
In diabetes, glucose can’t enter cells. As a result, the cells will send messages that there isn’t any source of energy for them to use. In turn, the brain will signal the body to eat more in the hopes to normalize blood sugar levels and compensate for the lack of glucose entering the cells.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Another common sign of diabetes is unexplained weight loss. The condition is due to frequent urination, even if the patient is always drinking and eating. When you lose sugar from urinating a lot, you lose calories, too.
Fatigue
Another common symptom of diabetes is fatigue since the cells in the body don’t get adequate glucose to turn into energy. Aside from that, having dehydration can add up to the feeling of weakness and tiredness.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision happens to people with diabetes. The eyesight becomes blurry due to the build-up of blood glucose in the body. The sugar level is pulling water from the eyes, making it harder for them to focus.
Slow Healing of Wounds and Cuts
Increased blood sugar levels in the body can damage the nerves and blood vessels. As a result, there is impaired circulation in the body. When a diabetic patient walks around, he can get small wounds from running or bumping into things. Usually, these wounds should recover right away. But in people with diabetes, due to the faulty circulation, the healing of wounds is slow.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic and long-lasting disease. Early detection of the illness early helps reverse the condition and prevent the development of unwanted complications.
