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Diabetes is a disease that renders the body unable to control sugars in the blood. Some patients have type 1 diabetes, while others suffer from the type 2 diabetes. The diseases are similar, differing only in the speed at which they manifest. Type 1 diabetes symptoms develop relatively quickly. This form of diabetes is caused by an autoimmune response within the body. This response creates an attack on the valuable beta cells that are found in the pancreas. In the case of type 1 diabetes, there is no insulin being produced. Therefore, the symptoms develop rapidly and the disease worsens very quickly. Without early diagnosis and proper treatment a person suffering type 1 diabetes can quickly fall into a diabetic coma. This irreversible condition causes the patient to face a lifetime of insulin supplements. In the case of type 2 diabetes, the situation is quite different. People with this form of the disease will still produce some insulin. However, the natural release of insulin may not be adequate for the body to process. Further, the cells may become resistant and unable to utilize the available insulin. Symptoms develop more slowly in type 2 diabetes. The disease grows progressively worse over an extended period of time and, in some cases, it can take years to diagnose. Signs of diabetes are similar in both type 1 and type 2. If you feel that you are showing signs of diabetes, seek medical advice right away. * Persistent Thirst: A consistent feeling of thirst may indicate the progression of diabetes. This can also be caused by other factors, but it's worth talking to your doctor to rule out the possibility of diabetes. * Sleepiness and Lack of Energy: It's natural to suffer from fatigue now and again, but see your doctor if this is a regular complaint or your lethargy last for days at a time. * Frequent Need to Urinate: Drinking more naturally leads to frequent urination. Diabetes is one of many conditions that can cause frequent urination, so check with your doctor to be sure. If the urine smells sweet, it may indicate that higher levels of sugar are present in your system. * Vision Changes: Smaller blood vessels may be damaged by high blood glucose levels. In turn, the sensitive structures of the eyes may also be damaged. Have any sudden changes in your vision promptly investigated. * Sweet smelling breath: Again, this is linked to the high sugar levels. If you or your friends notice a sweet smell to your breath, it should be investigated as a possible sign of diabetes. * Eating More: There are many causes of an increased appetite, but it can also pose a potential risk of diabetes. Speak with a doctor if you have unexplained weight loss along with your increased appetite * Labored or Heavy Breathing: Of course, many respiratory conditions will create breathing difficulties. This, however, may be a sign of diabetes that should not be ignored. * Stupor or Unconsciousness: This is one of the last signs of diabetes to present itself. By the time that the patient shows these symptoms, it may be too late to help. Diabetes can affect anyone, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Early detection is the key to successfully treating both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Ignoring the signs and delaying treatment, on the other hand, may lead to additional health risks and more serious complications. See your doctor immediately if you have one symptom or a combination of the signs of diabetes.
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Contributor Mary Davis contributes articles to several web sites, on health diet fitness and family health issues.
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