Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects millions of women each year. When you have diabetes, the body cannot correctly produce or use insulin. Insulin carries glucose into the cells, which is used for energy. When you have too much glucose in your blood, it can lead to organ failure. Diabetes affects men, women, and children of all ages, all races, and all socioeconomic levels. However, it is essential to understand that women react differently to diabetes due to their female hormones that wax and wane throughout the month. Below are some top warning signs of diabetes in women that are frequently ignored but can signal a diabetic issue.
Symptoms of Diabetes
There are various signs and symptoms of diabetes, including-
Fatigue
Persistent fatigue is more than just feeling tired. With diabetic fatigue, you experience feelings of lethargy and exhaustion, even after a good night’s sleep or a nap. Chronic fatigue affects 61 percent of individuals who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Diabetic fatigue results from the body’s inability to correctly utilize your foods. If you are experiencing unrelenting fatigue, this can be a sign of diabetes.
Female Sexual Dysfunction
Diabetes can damage the nerves in your body. Women can experience loss of sensation in the hands, feet, legs, and vaginal areas. This loss of sensation can lead to a low sex drive and the inability to orgasm. If you are experiencing burning, tingling, or loss of sensation, you may be suffering from diabetic neuropathy.
Frequent Urination
Increased urination is a common symptom of diabetes. Diabetes also causes increased thirst, which in turn can lead to frequent urination. With increased frequency, a person is more likely to develop a urinary tract infection.
Fruity Breath
Diabetes increases the body’s toxic load as it struggles to remove toxins and excess glucose. The body excretes excess glucose through sweat glands and saliva. When glucose mixes with enzymes in the mouth, it can cause a fruity breath odor.
Increased Hunger
Diabetes prevents the body from converting glucose into energy. When the body does not have enough energy, the hunger signal activates. An increased sensation of hunger causes weight gain; therefore, when choosing foods, opt for low-calorie, high-nutrient foods like fresh veggies, lean proteins, and fresh fruits.
Increased Thirst
High blood sugar pulls fluid from your cells, increasing your thirst. The kidneys also pull glucose from the bloodstream, excreting it through urine. To help stave your thirst, choose mineral water rather than tap water.
Mood Swings
Mood swings can affect those with diabetes. When you have diabetes, you can experience times of anxiety, irritability, sadness, and depression. These emotional responses can come and go quickly. Furthermore, you can go from one extreme to the other very quickly. If you are experiencing mood swings, try using stress reduction techniques like meditation and yoga to calm your mind.
Obesity
Diabetes and obesity are closely related. Diabetes affects how the body processes food, reducing metabolism and leading to weight gain. Regular exercise and a healthy, low-calorie diet can help boost metabolism and help people lose excess weight.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs when a woman produces too many male hormones. Research indicates PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, talk with your doctor about ways to lower your risk of developing diabetes.
Slow Healing
Diabetes slows down the healing process. One of the most sensitive areas of the body is the feet. Because gangrene is so prevalent in diabetic patients, a person needs to avoid injuries and seek out medical help immediately.
Unexpected Changes in Weight
Weight loss and weight gain are both symptoms of diabetes. When the body is unable to use the food that a person eats, unexpected, sudden weight loss can occur —this is more prevalent with Type 1 Diabetes. Conversely, weight gain can occur due to excessive hunger and high insulin levels, as is the case with Type II Diabetes.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections cause discolored, dark urine, burning sensations, and painful urination. Diabetes reduces blood circulation, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections. Furthermore, diabetes can extend the length of time it takes to heal.
Vision Changes
Diabetes can impact your eyes and cause a plethora of issues, including blurred vision, glaucoma, and cataracts. If you notice a sudden vision change, contact your physician immediately.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are a common issue for diabetic individuals. High glucose levels create a perfect environment for yeast and fungus to grow. Vaginal yeast infections can cause vaginal discharge, severe itching, soreness, and uncomfortable sex. Take a probiotic supplement and increase your consumption of fermented foods to reduce the risk of vaginal yeast infections.
Holistic Approach to Diabetes Management
Diabetes affects millions of American women each year. There are several warning signs of diabetes that women overlook. Knowing the most common signs of diabetes in women can help you seek help. Our integrative practitioners use a holistic approach to help you improve your health and reduce the risk of developing diabetes or controlling the symptoms that come with it.
