2023-10-26 05:13:00
Title: Diabetes: A Widespread Disease in Germany that Often Goes Undetected
Subtitle: Here Are the Key Symptoms to Look For
By Natalie Hull-Deichsel and Anne Tessin
Published: October 26, 2023, 5:13 a.m
Germany – Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, affects over 95 percent of patients in the country, making it a widespread disease. However, diabetes often remains undetected, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and vigilance regarding its symptoms.
According to the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), approximately 560,000 people are diagnosed with diabetes mellitus each year in Germany. It is estimated that seven to eight million people in the country suffer from this metabolic disease, making it one of the most serious widespread health conditions. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to irreversible damage to the eyes, kidneys, and nervous system. Complications such as amputations, specifically related to the diabetes foot syndrome, are also common. Furthermore, diabetics face a three times higher risk of heart attacks or strokes compared to non-diabetics. Sadly, the life expectancy of individuals with diabetes is also reduced.
One of the main challenges in tackling diabetes is that type 2 diabetes often develops without clear symptoms, potentially remaining undetected for several years. It is crucial to recognize the factors that increase the risk of developing the disease. While type 1 diabetes is commonly associated with genetic factors, type 2 diabetes is often a result of an affluent lifestyle. Risk factors such as an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, stress, regular alcohol consumption, and smoking contribute to approximately 80 percent of diabetes cases. Additionally, these risk factors can also lead to other serious diseases such as colon cancer and stomach cancer.
Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes is key to early detection and management. Here are the key symptoms to watch for:
1. Intense Thirst: Individuals with elevated blood sugar levels often experience increased thirst as the kidneys attempt to eliminate excess sugar by removing fluid from the body.
2. Strong Urge to Urinate: If a person feels the need to urinate frequently, especially at night, it may be a sign of diabetes. When blood sugar levels exceed the kidneys’ capacity, the body excretes the excess sugar through the urinary bladder.
3. Frequent Bladder Infections: Women, in particular, may suffer from frequent urge to urinate and urinary tract infections in connection with diabetes. The excess blood sugar in the urine provides an additional source of nutrients for bacteria.
4. Frequent Muscle Cramps: Individuals with diabetes may experience frequent and intense muscle cramps, particularly in the calves or feet. These cramps indicate a disruption in the mineral balance due to fluid loss. In advanced diabetes, muscle cramps could indicate nerve damage.
5. Severe Fatigue: Profound and persistent fatigue is often one of the first indicators of diabetes. The impact of excess sugar on metabolism and energy intake can lead to extreme tiredness.
6. Worsening of Vision: Diabetes can cause blurred vision, coupled with varying visual acuity. Rapid changes in vision, especially blurriness in the morning and clarity in the afternoon, may indicate previously unrecognized diabetes mellitus.
7. Dry Skin: The loss of fluid, partly caused by frequent urination, can result in dry, brittle, and injury-prone skin for people with diabetes.
8. Sensitive Skin: Diabetes can impair nerve functions and disturb blood circulation, making individuals more prone to cracks, injuries, and pressure points, particularly on the feet (known as “diabetic foot”).
9. Dizziness Attacks: Sugar-induced dizziness is a common symptom of diabetes, particularly due to nerve problems in the feet. This can affect gait stability.
10. Hunger and Loss of Appetite: Rapid fluctuations in hunger and a lack of appetite are characteristic signs associated with varying insulin levels in people with diabetes. Falling blood sugar levels stimulate hunger, while increased blood sugar levels impair feelings of fullness.
Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of diabetes. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Please note that this article provides general information about diabetes and its symptoms and should not be used for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. It is always advisable to seek medical guidance from qualified professionals.
(This article was revised using machine assistance and carefully checked by editor Anne Tessin before publication.)]
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