Archive for July, 2012

Symptoms of diabetes in women

Just like men, even women can develop diabetes. Additionally, they can also suffer from diabetes that is specific to women. For example, only pregnant women can suffer from gestational diabetes. The symptoms of diabetes in women are similar and can appear at various stages. When you are aware of these symptoms, it will help in diagnoses of the problem and prevent serious complications. Some of the symptoms of diabetes in women include:

Fatigue

Diabetic ketoacidosis in women can result to increased levels of fatigue. Fatigue caused due to diabetes is more than just feeling tired. This type of fatigue will make it difficult for you to keep your eyes open. You will feel weak and make activity and movement difficult.

Frequent Urination

When an excessive level of glucose is released in the urine, it can cause osmotic dieresis in which chloride, potassium and sodium are also excreted in high quantities. When women urinate, higher than normal level of water accompany these electrolytes which can lead to dehydration.

Diabetes is known to affect the functioning of kidney which can lead to frequent urination. Unusual urine frequency is also an indicator of high glucose levels in the bloodstream. Increase in glucose levels can occur if the insulin level is insufficient to break down glucose for absorption.

Excessive Thirst

Excessive urination can lead to body dehydration which leads to frequent thirst. Excessive thirst caused is different from normal thirst because you feel that your thirst is unquenchable. You may feel parched even after you drink water and other beverages.

Weight Loss

Some women who suffer from Type 1 diabetes may not be able to breakdown food because enough insulin is not produced by their body. When insulin levels are low, sugar is not absorbed by the body which can result in weight loss.

Weight Gain during Pregnancy

Any abnormal weight gain during pregnancy is an indication that woman is suffering from gestational diabetes. When a woman is pregnant, their body may need more insulin than what their body can produce. However, this problem can be discovered only in the second or third trimester of their pregnancy.

Problem in the Eye

When the level of unabsorbed glucose increases in the bloodstream, it can affect the functioning of the eye. Blurred vision is one of the symptoms of diabetes in women. Studies have also shown that risk of legal blindness can increase by 2500 percent in women who suffer from diabetes.

Decreased sensation in the arms and legs

`One of the common symptoms of diabetes is decreased sensation in the arms and legs. Some women could also suffer from diabetic neuropathy or acute pain in their feet and arms. If diabetes is not controlled it can lead to pain in the nerves.

Impaired Wound Healing

Decreased sensation in the arms and legs can lead to the tendency of overlooking the wounds. Some women step on pointed and sharp objects which can lead to ulcers and wounds. Since blood circulation is less efficient in people who suffer from diabetes, wounds may take time to heal. If you notice that your wounds are taking time to heal, it is sign that you are suffering from diabetes.

Infections

Diabetes can affect the immune system which can increase the chances of bladder and yeast infection. High glucose level in the blood provides an environment that facilitates yeast growth which can increase the risk of vaginal yeast infection.