What Are The Symptoms Of Diabetes?

Tuesday 14th November is World Diabetes Day. According to Diabetes UK, Diabetes is the fastest growing health threat, with the number of people living with diabetes doubling since 1996.

Here we have taken a look at some common questions surrounding diabetes, including the symptoms to look out for:

Q: What is diabetes?

A: Diabetes is a condition that occurs when your pancreas doesn’t produce any insulin, or not enough insulin, to help the glucose in your blood to enter the body’s cells. Diabetes is caused when the insulin produced does not work properly. This causes your blood sugar to become too high.

Q: Why are there two types of diabetes, and what is the difference?

A: The two types of diabetes both refer to raised blood sugar, however type 1 is believed to be as a result of genetics, and diet or lifestyle doesn't tend to play a part. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in childhood and it is where the pancreas doesn't produce any insulin.

Type 2 is far more common in adults, and is on the increase, and is often associated  as consequence of obesity. Specifically type 2 means that the pancreas isn't producing enough insulin, or the body isn't reacting to the insulin produced.

Q: What are the symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes?

A: While some people do not have any symptoms, according to the NHS, many experience one or more of the following:

- excessive thirst 
- a frequent need to pass water, particularly at night
- feeling very tired
- unintentional weight-loss

Q: What do I do if I think I have diabetes?

A: See your doctor as soon as possible if you think you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, as quick diagnosis is very important. You can also test your own blood sugar level using a simple finger prick test. This can be obtained through your GP or purchased from your local and online pharmacy.