2023-10-29 15:09:00
Title: Diabetes: Symptoms to Watch for and Risks of Undetection
Publication Date: October 29, 2023
By Natalie Hull-Deichsel and Anne Tessin
Diabetes is a widespread disease in Germany, particularly type 2 diabetes, which affects over 95 percent of patients. However, the disease often goes undetected for years due to its inconspicuous development and lack of clear symptoms. As of today, around 560,000 people in Germany are diagnosed with diabetes mellitus each year, according to the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD). It is estimated that seven to eight million people in Germany suffer from diabetes.
Diabetes, a metabolic disease in which insulin plays a central role, is one of the most serious widespread diseases. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible damage to the eyes, kidneys, and nervous system. Complications such as the diabetes foot syndrome often necessitate amputations, and the risk of heart attack or stroke is three times higher in diabetics compared to non-diabetics. Moreover, diabetes reduces life expectancy.
Type 2 diabetes, which is usually associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, is responsible for the majority of cases. Risk factors including an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, stress, regular alcohol consumption, and smoking contribute to approximately 80 percent of diabetes cases. These risks also have the potential to lead to other serious diseases such as colon cancer and stomach cancer.
Detecting diabetes early is crucial for managing the disease and preventing complications. Although blood glucose meters can be used to quickly detect elevated blood sugar levels, there are also symptoms that can indicate diabetes. Increased thirst is often one of the first symptoms, as the kidneys attempt to eliminate excess sugar from the body through increased water consumption. Another symptom is a strong urge to urinate, especially at night, as the body tries to excrete excess sugar through the urinary bladder. Frequent urination and urinary tract infections, particularly in women, are also associated with diabetes.
Muscle cramps, particularly in the calves or feet, may indicate diabetes and suggest a disruption in the body’s mineral balance due to fluid loss. Severe and persistent fatigue is another common symptom, as excess sugar affects metabolism and energy intake. Blurred vision, coupled with a general deterioration in vision and varying visual acuity, is often experienced by individuals with undiagnosed diabetes. Dry, brittle skin, sensitivity to injuries, dizziness attacks, and rapidly changing periods of hunger and loss of appetite are also characteristic signs associated with diabetes.
It is important to note that this article provides general information on diabetes symptoms and risks and is not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. A visit to the doctor is necessary for proper diagnosis and management of the disease. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about medical conditions.
The article has been revised using machine assistance and carefully reviewed by editor Anne Tessin before publication.]
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