A nurse has highlighted the five most common symptoms of diabetes that are often overlooked.
Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels which can harm organs such as the heart, eyes, and kidneys over time. In the UK, approximately one in 16 people live with the condition, with type two diabetes accounting for over 90% of cases.
Despite this, many remain unaware of the early indicators. However, one healthcare professional is determined to raise awareness. On TikTok, US-based nurse Lener Crockett outlined five key symptoms people should be vigilant about.
“Did you know that oftentimes diabetes goes undetected? ” she began, adding: “Don’t ignore these symptoms.”
Feeling thirsty
The first sign Crockett mentioned was “increased thirst.” She asked: “Feeling thirsty more than usual?” While feeling thirsty often could simply indicate dehydration or result from consuming salty or spicy foods, persistent thirst despite adequate fluid intake might warrant a GP visit.
Needing to pee more often
Another symptom the nurse pointed out was the need to urinate more often, particularly at night, which could also suggest the presence of diabetes.
Frequent urination, coupled with excessive thirst, is a symptom that arises when the body struggles to process surplus sugar or glucose. This forces the kidneys to filter out the sugar through urine.
Fatigue
Fatigue can also be a warning sign of diabetes, according to Crockett. However, feeling “unusually tired or exhausted,” could be due to various factors and doesn’t necessarily mean you have diabetes.
The NHS states that common causes of fatigue include lack of sleep, unhealthy lifestyle, stress, depression, hormonal changes, certain acute illnesses like Covid-19 or glandular fever, and some medical treatments including chemotherapy.
Changes to vision
Blurred vision is another potential indicator of diabetes. The nurse explained that experiencing vision changes or having difficulty focusing could suggest something isn’t right. Diabetes can cause the lens of the eye to swell, leading to blurred vision.
Once your blood sugar levels stabilise, your eyesight may return to normal. Seeing shapes ‘floating’ in your eyes, known as floaters, can also be a symptom.
Wounds that are slow to heal
Lastly, the nurse highlighted “slow-healing wounds” as a symptom of diabetes. She asked: “Do cuts or sores take longer to heal for you? ” She concluded her video by advising: “If you experience any of these symptoms, call your medical professional as soon as possible.”
The NHS has stated that other signs of diabetes can include weight loss and genital itching. However, experiencing any of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean you have diabetes. If you’re worried about your symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with your GP.