A general practitioner has shed light on the understated symptoms that are frequently dismissed or misattributed but could actually be indicators of diabetes. In the UK, it is estimated that six million people have diabetes, with many unaware of their condition’s severity.
Dr Saira Bano, a GP, Obesity Specialist, and Co-Founder of SwiftDoctor, explained: “When most people consider diabetes, they often think of classical symptoms like frequent urination or excessive thirst. However, the warning signs can be much more subtle. Many individuals experience symptoms for months or even years, brushing them off as stress, ageing, or a busy lifestyle, which delays seeking medical advice until the disease has advanced.”
Dr Bano has identified several symptoms warranting attention:
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Recurrent Thrush or Genital Infections Repeated episodes of thrush or fungal infections that return despite treatment could indicate underlying issues. High blood sugar fosters an environment conducive to yeast growth, increasing the risk of infections in genital areas. If these infections persist alongside symptoms like increased thirst, fatigue, or frequent urination, consulting a GP is advisable.
Blurred Vision That Fluctuates Intermittent blurred vision might be easily attributed to tired eyes or the need for new glasses. Yet fluctuations in blood sugar can alter the eye’s lens shape, temporarily impairing vision. Persistent or recurrent visual changes should prompt a medical consultation.
Slow-Healing Cuts and Frequent Skin Infections Wounds that take longer than usual to heal, or frequent skin infections, can be warning signs. Elevated blood sugar can impair circulation and the immune response, hindering healing and increasing infection risk. Discussing these signs with a GP can help identify or exclude diabetes.
Tingling, Burning or Numbness in Feet Unusual sensations such as tingling, burning or numbness in the feet or hands are often overlooked as benign. However, these can result from nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar. Early evaluation is important since multiple treatments are more effective if started promptly.
Dark, Velvety Patches of Skin Some individuals develop thickened, darkened skin patches, commonly on the neck, underarms, or in folds like the groin. These patches, linked to a condition called acanthosis nigricans, are associated with insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. While not everyone with this skin change will develop diabetes, it signals the need for blood sugar testing and medical advice.
Awareness of these less obvious symptoms could lead to earlier diagnosis and management of diabetes, potentially reducing complications and improving quality of life.