Type 2 diabetes symptoms: Four sensations indicative of high blood sugar

From express.co.uk

DIABETES is a condition that can gradually creep up on you; even though the symptoms can be brushed off as inconsequential, the internal damage being done is dangerous

Early indications of high blood sugar (the hallmark of type 2 diabetes) include frequent urination, increased hunger, and tiredness. As the condition progresses, sensations might appear. According to the Mayo Clinic, excess sugar in the blood can injure the walls of the tiny blood vessel (i.e. capillaries) that nourish your nerves. This can prevent adequate blood supply and nutrients from reaching the nerves.

Consequently, four sensations might arise in the tips of the toes and fingers. The four sensations in the body's extremities are: tingling, numbness, burning and/or pain.

Do not ignore these warning signs, especially if it's recurrent, because it could result in an absolute loss of feeling in the affected limbs.

Type 2 diabetes: Four sensations indicative of high blood sugar (Image: Getty)

If no feeling is left in the feet, cuts and blisters can then develop into serious infections, and the wound would not be able to heal properly.

In severe cases, serious infections can lead to the toe, foot, or leg being amputated (i.e. surgically removed).

Other indications of nerve damage include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation.

For men, nerve damage can even lead to erectile dysfunction.

Nerve damage (known as neuropathy) is only one long-term health complication that can arise from high blood sugar.

Type 2 diabetes can also "dramatically" increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, such as:

• Coronary heart disease
• Heart attack
• Stroke.

The best way to manage your diabetes is to receive medical support as soon as possible.

If you identify with any of these early warning signs of type 2 diabetes, request a blood test to check for your blood sugar levels.

The NHS listed symptoms of type 2 diabetes:

• Peeing more than usual, particularly at night
• Feeling thirsty all the time
• Feeling very tired
• Losing weight without trying to
• Itching around your penis or vagina, or repeatedly getting thrush
• Cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
• Blurred vision.

Am I at risk of type 2 diabetes?

People over the age of 25 are more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if they're from south Asian descent.

Your risk for this condition also increases if you have a close relative who has type 2 diabetes, such as a parent or sibling.

You're also more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you're overweight. However, it must be noted that some people aren't overweight when they're diagnosed with the condition.

A GP can diagnose type 2 diabetes, which means treatment can begin.

While there is no cure available for the condition, it can be put into remission. This will involve exercising more often, eating a healthy diet, and being a non-smoker. Medication may be prescribed to you in order to help lower blood sugar levels.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1458152/type-2-diabetes-symptoms-bodily-sensations-high-blood-sugar-nerve-damage