Diabetes symptoms: The 10 'silent' signs of type 2 diabetes you might be ignoring

From express.co.uk

DIABETES symptoms usually include making more trips to the toilet than normal, and feeling unusually thirsty. But there are a number of other key warning signs that you might not even be noticing. These are the "silent" symptoms of type 2 diabetes - are you at risk?

Diabetes is a very common condition that often goes under the radar. But it's absolutely essential that everyone with diabetes has their condition diagnosed as soon as possible. Could you have type 2 diabetes and not even know it?

Diabetes affects about five million people in the UK alone - although lots of people won't even know they're at risk. It's caused by the pancreas struggling to produce enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to it. Insulin is used by the body to convert sugar in the blood into energy.

Diabetes symptoms can be hard to come by, and they could easily be dismissed as something less serious.

When you know what to look for, diabetes has "plenty of early signs", according to Wayne UNC Health Care. But individually, the symptoms might seem "silent", it warned, because they're not necessarily obvious.

For example, you might develop persistent pins and needles - particularly in the morning. Taken by itself, pins and needles aren't necessarily anything to worry about. But when it's accompanied by other diabetes symptoms, it should be investigated by a doctor.

    Diabetes symptoms: Speak to a doctor if you're worried about the signs of diabetes (Image: EXPRESS)

'Silent symptoms of diabetes'

Persistent urinary tract infections or yeast infections

Volatile moods

Slow-healing wounds

Itchy skin

Blurry vision

Pins and needles

Weakness or fatigue

Extreme hunger

Excessive thirst

Frequent urination

"If you’re having some of these subtle symptoms, try a low-carb diet of protein and green leafy vegetables," it said.

"Avoid sugary drinks and drink at least 2 litres of water for a few days to see if these symptoms get better.

"Subtle symptoms could just be a result of eating too many carbs, which can be hard for your body to handle. These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have diabetes, but it’s a wake-up call that maybe you’re headed that way.

"If you have any symptoms that are frightening such as sudden numbness, weakness or chest pains, call your doctor immediately."

Left untreated, it increases the risk of heart disease or strokes, as well as some cancers and kidney problems. But you could lower your risk of high blood sugar by making just a few lifestyle changes. It's important to eat a healthy, balanced diet, and to do regular exercise.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1542517/diabetes-symptoms-signs-type-2-diabetes-evg