Diabetes UK show how to test feet for diabetic feet sensitivity
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The medical name for this skin condition is acanthosis nigricans, and may be the first sign that someone has diabetes. The Cleveland Clinic says: “This condition causes dark, velvet-looking bands of discoloured skin. It commonly affects people who are overweight. Acanthosis nigricans can be a warning sign of high blood sugar or prediabetes.” Despite there being some signs, the NHS says many people have type 2 diabetes without realising, as symptoms do not necessarily make you feel unwell.
The Mayo Clinic says signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes often develop slowly, and people can be living with type 2 diabetes for years and not know it.
Nonetheless, the organisation says when signs and symptoms are present, they may include areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck.
Other signs include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
- Frequent infections
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
READ MORE: Taking too much vitamin B12? Your hands and feet can signal you’re overdoing supplements
Other signs include:
The NHS says that you should see a GP if you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes or you’re worried you may have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
It notes: “A GP can diagnose diabetes. You’ll need a blood test, which you may have to go to your local health centre for if it cannot be done at your GP surgery.”
NHS Inform adds: “It’s very important for diabetes to be diagnosed as soon as possible as it will get progressively worse if left untreated.”
The health body explains type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body’s cells don’t react to insulin. This means glucose stays in the blood and isn’t used as fuel for energy.
It says: “Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and tends to be diagnosed in older people.
“Due to increased obesity, type 2 diabetes is now being seen in young people and all ages. It’s far more common than type 1 diabetes.”
The Mayo Clinic explains understanding possible diabetes symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, which can help you prevent the complications of diabetes and lead to a lifetime of better health.
The NHS says early in the course of type 2 diabetes planned weight loss can reverse the disease.
The NHS says: “A healthy diet and keeping active will help you manage your blood sugar level. It’ll also help you control your weight and generally feel better.”
It says you should go for a regular diabetes check-up once a year to make sure your blood pressure and cholesterol (blood fats) are OK.
The health body also notes physical exercise helps lower your blood sugar level.
It says: “You should aim for two and a half hours of activity a week. You can be active anywhere as long as what you’re doing gets you out of breath.”
Diabetes UK says: “When you have diabetes, keeping to a healthy weight has a lot of benefits.
“It helps protect your blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduces your risk of developing serious problems with your eyes, feet and heart.”
The charity notes: “There are different types of diabetes, and no two people with diabetes are the same. So there isn’t a one-size-fits-all ‘diabetes diet’ for everyone with diabetes.”
Source: Read Full Article
