WARNING SIGNS OF TYPE 2 DIABETES THAT BOTH WOMEN AND MEN HAVE IN COMMON:
- Excessive thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination (from urinary tract infections or kidney problems)
- Weight loss or gain
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Blurred vision
- Wounds that take a long time to heal
- Nausea
- Skin infections
- Darkening areas of skin around the neck, armpit, and groin
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
SYMPTOMS UNIQUE TO WOMEN:
- Vaginal and/or yeast infections and vaginal thrush (symptoms include itchiness, vaginal discharge, painful sex). High levels of glucose in the blood increase the likelihood of fungal growth.
- Urinary infections (symptoms include painful urination, burning sensation, cloudy urine). UTIs are common in women with diabetes because hyperglycaemia compromises the immune system.
- Sexual dysfunction.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (irregular periods, infertility, and excessive male hormones resulting in acne and unwanted hair growth). PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and is a risk factor for developing diabetes.
SYMPTOMS UNIQUE TO MEN:
- Obesity and high glucose cause low testosterone, while diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels to the penis causing:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased sex drive
- Sexual dysfunction
SOURCE: Mediclinic
