Diabetes, Endocrinology and Healthcare

Diabetes Symptoms and Complications

Diabetes mellitus can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications if not properly managed. The symptoms of diabetes, particularly in the early stages, can be subtle or go unnoticed. Common symptoms include excessive thirst (polydipsia), frequent urination (polyuria), unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger (polyphagia), blurred vision, fatigue, and slow healing of wounds. In Type 1 diabetes, these symptoms often develop rapidly, whereas in Type 2 diabetes, they may develop gradually or be absent until more serious complications arise.

If diabetes is not well controlled, it can result in severe complications over time. Chronic high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to cardiovascular issues such as heart disease and stroke. Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy) is another common complication, potentially leading to kidney failure. Diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage, can cause numbness, tingling, or pain, especially in the feet and hands, and in severe cases, it may lead to amputations. Additionally, diabetes is a leading cause of blindness due to diabetic retinopathy, where the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. People with diabetes are also at an increased risk for infections, as high blood sugar can weaken the immune system.

Managing diabetes effectively through blood sugar control, a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and medication is crucial to reducing the risk of these complications. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can help prevent or delay the onset of many serious health issues associated with the disease.