About 38 million Americans are plagued with diabetes. Of those 38 million, almost 9 million don’t even know they have the condition.
Diabetes, often dubbed the “silent killer,” can go unnoticed for years if one isn’t aware of the warning signs.
It’s easy to go undiagnosed if you’re asymptomatic or you don’t know what to look for.
Early detection is key to preventing severe complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and vision problems.
“Unless you’re going to regular checkups and getting your bloodwork done, you probably feel fine, and that’s why pre-diabetes, and even Type 2 diabetes, can be a ‘silent disease,’” said registered dietitian Alison Massey, owner of Flourish Nutrition Therapy & Wellness.
Some crucial warning signs to look out for are:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Numbness or tingling of the limbs
To prevent these conditions, Massey said, “Exercise, I always say, is free medicine for the body. It does lower blood sugar levels, and daily activity of at least 30 minutes, I certainly recommend it.”
She also recommends eating healthier, which includes incorporating more whole foods, fruits and veggies, as well as reducing your sugar and alcohol consumption, getting at least seven hours of sleep per night, losing weight, and quitting smoking.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait. Consult with a health care provider immediately.
For more information on diabetes and its management, visit diabetes.org.