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Early Signs and Symptoms
of High Blood Sugar |
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It is important to recognize early warnings that diabetes may be developing, or becoming harder to control. If you notice one or more of
these early signs or symptoms of high blood sugar, see your doctor for a quick screening or diagnosic testing. Only with diagnosis can steps be taken and therapies started which will slow or halt the
progression of the disease toward serious complications. |
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Urine will increase in volume and frequency when blood glucose rises. The kidneys work to filter blood and try to rid it of the excess
sugar. In fact, one of the earliest methods for diagnosing diabetes was to notice the increased sugar content of urine. If it progresses, however, frequent urination will lead to excessive water loss and
dehydration, seriously jeopardizing health. |
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Thirst is noticably increased with high blood glucose because of water losses in urine. In addition, excess sugar concentrates the
blood.Both trigger thirst. |
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In addition, excess sugar concentrates the blood.Both trigger thirst. |
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Fatique and generalized weakness is noticable for two reasons. One, glucose is unable to be effectively used as a fuel by muscle cells. They
are "fuel deprived" and thus less able to perform work. Secondly, dehydration will bring on fatique. |
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Weight loss may be slow or rapid, but it is usually occuring without explanation. Many people with early diabetes note they are actually
eating more and still losing weight. This is the result of water losses, as well as increased breakdown of fat and protein tissues, as the body compensates for poor glucose utilization. |
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Hunger often increases because glucose, despite being high in the blood, is unavailable to cells as fuel. |
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Blurred vision may develop because rapidly rising blood sugar levels can cause fluid shifts in the lens of the eye. |
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Infections of gums, bladder, skin and vaginal yeast can become more problematic and harder to treat. Germs thrive in the high sugar content
of blood and body fluids. A woman may have recurrent urinary or vaginal infections. Another important symptom of noninsulindependent diabetes is recurring or slow-to-heal cuts and sores. |
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Irritability; drowsiness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, or itching. |
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"This web site is intended to help patients and their families learn MORE about their medical conditions and some of the options available to them.
This information is not assumed to be comprehensive or provide answers to all questions related to the topic of diabetes. This is an informational only web site and is not intended to be used for the
diagnosis or treatment of any specific individual. You must consult with your physician regarding your particular circumstances."
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