In order to avoid the sometimes life-threatening consequences of diabetes, it is important to recognize early symptoms and seek medical help immediately if warning signs are present.
Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disease with different forms. For example, diabetes is divided into type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes, report experts from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
Diabetes on the rise in Central Europe
In general, diabetes is widespread in Central Europe and the number of diseases is increasing. Today, 7.2 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 79 are diagnosed with diabetes during their lifetime.
In addition, according to the RKI, around 1.3 million adults in Central Europe still suffer from previously undiagnosed diabetes.
In general, it is important to recognize possible early signs of diabetes in order to protect yourself from the sometimes serious health consequences of the disease. The question arises as to which symptoms could indicate diabetes.
Four warning signs of type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a metabolic disease that particularly often affects children and adolescents. Various warning signs can indicate the disease.
The experts from the non-profit organization diabetesDE – Deutsche Diabetes-Hilfe report in an article that four warning signs in particular indicate type 1 diabetes. These include
- constant feeling of thirst,
- frequent urination,
- permanent fatigue
- and the unintentional loss of weight.
What is ketoacidosis?
If type 1 diabetes is not recognized and treated, it triggers a massive metabolic disorder called ketoacidosis. This disease is due to a significant insulin deficiency. If left untreated, ketoacidosis can have life-threatening consequences.
Recently there has been a significant increase in cases of ketoacidosis in Central Europe. A research study showed that the number of those affected doubled during the lockdown period of the corona pandemic in this country.
Diabetic ketoacidosis can be recognized by the fact that those affected suffer from an increased urge to urinate, nausea and vomiting or rapid breathing. Another sign of the disease is if your breath smells sour, like acetone.
Type 2 diabetes develops gradually
The most common form of diabetes occurring in Central Europe is type 2 diabetes. The disease develops slowly and is often only recognized late. Those affected often suffer from obesity, lipid metabolism disorders and high blood pressure.
In addition, type 2 diabetes can also cause weakness and reduced performance as well as increased fungal skin infections. Vision problems and recurrent urinary tract infections are also possible consequences.
Early warning signs of type 2 diabetes
According to endocrinologist Dr. Kevin Pantalone from the Cleveland Clinic (USA) noted that in addition to frequent urination and intense thirst, there was also an increased occurrence of urinary tract or yeast infections.
Other symptoms include worsening vision, discoloration of the skin, unintentional weight loss, permanent tiredness and constant exhaustion, reports the doctor.
Overall, it is important to correctly interpret the early signs of diabetes in order to detect and counteract the disease as early as possible, before those affected suffer serious health consequences. (as)
