Should be taken very seriously: 9 Early symptoms of diabetes you should keep an eye on

A quiet threat can sneak into everyday life without the big fanfares. The symptoms may seem innocent and easy to explain off.

But for thousands of Danes, these little signs can be the first warnings of a serious and chronic illness.

Over 320,000 people in Denmark today live with diabetes, and about 80 percent of them have type 2 diabetes. Worse yet: Up to 60,000 is believed to be affected without knowing it. A diagnosis in time can make the difference between a healthy, long life and a life characterized by complications.

1. Constant thirst and frequent toilet visits
Dry mouth and eternal thirst may seem like small annoyances, but it is often the body’s way of warning of elevated blood sugar. When the kidneys try to get rid of the sugar surplus, it smokes with the urine. The result? You drink more, pee more and end up in a vicious circle of dehydration.

2. An appetite that cannot be saturated
Do you feel hungry all the time, even after a meal? Without enough active insulin, the body’s cells cannot absorb the energy they need – and it triggers hunger signals. The more you eat, the more blood sugar rises and the problem worsens.

3rd. Precipitated fatigue
Even after a good night’s sleep, many wake up with diabetes and feel drained. Without enough glucose in the cells, the body lacks fuel. Dehydration due to frequent urination can also contribute to the feeling of exhaustion.

4. Blurred or distorted vision
Sudden trouble seeing clearly can be a danger signal. Elevated blood sugar can cause fluid retention in the eye lens, which affects the ability to focus. Untreated can lead to permanent eye damage.

5. Weight loss without explanation
Do you lose weight even if you have not changed diet or exercise habits? When the body cannot use glucose as fuel, it begins to break down fat and muscles instead. It can lead to a quick and unexpected weight loss.

6. Itching and dry skin
A body in fluid deficit uses what it has – also the moisture in the skin. The result can be dry, itchy and irritated skin. Many with diabetes also struggle with fungus, especially in skin folds.

7. Wounds that will never heal
Even small tears can pull long -distance if blood sugar is too high. Poor blood circulation and impaired immune system make it harder for the body to repair damage – especially on the feet and legs.

8. Dark spots on the skin
Brown or black spots in skin folds such as armpits, throat and groin may be indicative of a skin condition that often occurs as a result of insulin resistance. The condition is called acanthosis nigricans and should be checked by a doctor.

9. The tingling and sting in the hands and feet
Reduced blood circulation and damaged nerves are a known side effect of untreated diabetes. It is often felt as the tingling, the burning or numbness – especially in the extremes such as hands and feet.

The sooner you see the danger signals, the better you can act – and take control of your health.