Diabetes is a life-threatening disease that affects millions of Americans. However, recognizing the symptoms of diabetes may lead to an earlier diagnosis and reduce your risk for more serious health conditions. For those unfamiliar as to what are the symptoms of diabetes, the information below may provide some assistance.

Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

Type 1 diabetes is caused by an insulin insufficiency. In Type 1 diabetics, the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Since insulin is not present, the body cannot use or store glucose. Consequently, your blood glucose level rises. To combat against dangerously high blood sugar, Type 1 diabetics must self-administer daily insulin shots. They must also check their blood glucose level more frequently than Type 2 diabetics. You may be suffering from Type 1 diabetes if you suddenly experience the following symptoms:

• Lack of energy: This tiredness is due to the body's inability to create energy from the foods you eat.
• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss is commonly associated with diabetes.
• Frequent urination and excessive thirst/dry mouth: This is a result of high blood glucose levels, or hyperglycemia. The body's attempt to remove excess glucose causes you to make multiple trips to restroom. To replenish yourself, you drink more fluids, causing you to urinate more often.
• Constant hunger: Since the body is not receiving energy from glucose, it tricks you into thinking you need to eat more. Unfortunately, glucose levels aren't the cause, but the body's inability to use the existing glucose is.
• Blurred vision: When your body has an excess amount of glucose, it is not uncommon for the glucose to build up in the eye's fluids. When this occurs, the outer lids begin to swell, distorting your eyesight. However, this vision impairment is not long-term. Once you begin treating your diabetes, your vision will return to normal.

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Unlike people with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetics are insulin resistant. Although their bodies produce insulin, Type 2 diabetics are unable to properly use the hormone to lower blood sugar. For newly diagnosed diabetics, insulin may be unnecessary. However, as one ages, insulin may be required to lower blood glucose. Until then, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and oral medication can control your blood sugar.

Type 2 diabetics experience similar diabetes symptoms to those with Type 1 diabetes; however, they also may suffer from nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, weakness, and numbness in the hands or feet. These symptoms of diabetes occur because the body uses retained fat to produce more energy. It's important to note that some Type 2 diabetics may not experience any symptoms of diabetes. For this reason, it's imperative that those at risk for Type 2 diabetes, including people with a family history of the disease or are overweight or obese, should schedule regular visits with their doctors.

See your doctor if you're experiencing any signs and symptoms of diabetes. Although these symptoms may indicate diabetes, blood work must be done in order to confirm a diagnosis. An early diagnosis can eliminate these diabetes symptoms and help you lead a healthier life.