Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has obvious signs, such as constant thirst and frequent urination. Few people associate elevated blood glucose levels with mood swings, for example.
A study published in The Health notes that type 2 diabetes may be indicated by signs that are not usually associated with this disease.
1. Periodontitis. The relationship between diabetes and periodontitis is two-way: diabetes can worsen periodontitis, and periodontitis is a risk factor for high blood sugar, a determinant of diabetes.
2. Skin changes. Skin conditions may be one of the first signs of diabetes. For example, acanthosis nigricans is a velvety, dark, often thickened patch on the skin. Usually develops in skin folds. Localization:
- Axilla
- Back of the neck
- Elbows
- Groin area
- Knees
Acanthosis nigricans can cause high insulin levels. It is a precursor to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
3. Frequent infections. High blood sugar creates an environment for microbial growth and weakens the immune response.
Bacterial infections affect hair follicles and nails. Some develop boils and styes (an infected, painful lump on the eyelid). Fungal infections caused by Candida may occur.
4. Changes in vision
Excess sugar damages small vessels in the eye. Some of the earliest changes include blurred vision. Next, dark, floating spots or veins appear.
5. Changes in Hearing
Long-term high blood sugar damages the small blood vessels and nerves of the inner ear.
6. Changes in mood
Spikes in blood sugar lead to mood swings. They cause anxiety and depressive disorders. Researchers have found that changes in blood sugar levels after meals can affect cognitive abilities, including attention and focus.
Classic symptoms of type 2 diabetes:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Ulcers that do not heal
- Tingling and numbness in the arms and legs
- Weakness
Read also: Urologist Smernitsky: irregular sex life negatively affects libido
More on the topic: Important for hypertensive patients: what is persistently high blood pressure
You can read: Endocrinologist Kvasova: adequate sleep affects weight and is important for the central nervous system
Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.