Symptoms, Risk Factors & Complications
SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES
- Blurred vision
- Dehydration
- Dry mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent episodes of thrush & cystitis
- Frequent urine infections
- Lack of energy
- Pass a lot of urine
- Slow healing wounds (cuts & scratches)
- Tingling or numbness in the hands & feet
- Very tired
- Weight loss
RISK FACTORS
- Ethnic background (Over 30 yrs and Asian, African, Caribbean, Indian, Pacific Islander, Maori or of Aboriginal descent, OR over 40 yrs and of European descent).
- Family history.
- Overweight.
- Excess weight around your waist.
- Some medications
- Viral infections.
- Damage to the pancreas.
- Hormonal disorders.
- Diabetes in pregnancy.
- High blood pressure.
- Impaired glucose tolerance.
- Given birth to large (over 4kg) babies.
- High cholesterol.
- Physical inactivity.
- Poor nutrition (eating a lot of food).
- Tobacco smoking.
COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES
- Decreased sexual desire
- Foot ulcers, Gangrene
- Gum disease and other Mouth & Teeth problems
- Heart disease, Heart attacks
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Kidney disease
- Retinopathy, Cataracts
- Men – Impotence or Erectile dysfunction
- Poor circulation, Reduced sensation, Peripheral neuropathy
- Skin conditions & Infections
- Strokes
- Women – Vaginal dryness, Pain or discomfort during intercourse. Increased episodes of Cystitis, & Yeast infections (thrush)
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