Health Information on Symptoms and Risks of Diabetes

Login to your account:

Don't have an account? Create one now! 
 
Products by Model Numbers | QuickMedical Site Map

Questions? Call us toll-free at 1-888-345-4858

Health Information on Symptoms and Risks of Diabetes

Return to Health Info Home Page

Health and Fitness Information Center

Symptoms and Risks of Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a common disorder that occurs when your pancreas either totally stops producing insulin or does not produce enough of the hormone for your body's needs. This results in a low absorption of glucose, both by the cells, which need it for energy, and by the liver, which stores it. Another result is a high level of glucose in your blood.

Symptoms of Diabetes:

  • Frequent Urination
  • Dried splashes on underwear
  • Perpetual thirst
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Weakness in the muscles
  • Weight Loss
  • Possible tingling in hands and feet
  • Reduced resistance to infections
  • Blurred vision due to excess glucose in eye fluid
  • Impotence in men
  • Absence of menstrual periods in women

Risks of Diabetes:

  • Diabetic coma or unconsciousness
  • Diabetic retinopathy (eye disorder)
  • Peripheral neuropathy (nerve disease)
  • Chronic kidney failure
  • Leg cramps (caused by blood vessels to legs narrowed)
  • Cold feet
  • Pain when you walk
  • Skin ulcers
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • High blood pressure


While daily blood glucose testing tells you what your blood sugar level is at the time you test, HbA1c testing tells you your "average" blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.

These tests are very important in protecting your long-term health. Maintaining good HbA1c levels will help reduce your risk of diabetes complications such as blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage, stroke, and heart failure.

Back: Diabetes - Defined Also See: Home Diabetes Testers Next: Who is at Risk of Diabetes?