The Big Three Diabetes Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes can be reduced to three major factors. In the case of type 1 diabetes, these symptoms can develop quickly.

However, when it comes to type 2 diabetes, symptoms may be far subtler and develop slower.

What are the big three symptoms of diabetes?

The three major symptoms of diabetes are:

• Polyuria (The need to urinate frequently)
• Polydipsia (Increased thirst & fluid intake)
• Polyphagia (Increased appetite)

What happens when a person develops diabetes and reports these symptoms?

These symptoms are caused by the effect of diabetes on the body. If the level of glucose in the blood becomes too high, glucose is improperly reabsorbed through the proximal renal tubuli. This results in higher levels of glucose being present in the urine (glycosuria) and in turn increases the osmotic pressure. This prevents water being reabsorbed by the kidney, resulting in greater urine production. This causes the patient to urinate frequently. Water held in the cells is required to replace lost blood volume, and this causes dehydration and thirst.

What are the other major symptoms of diabetes?

Glucose absorption can change the shape of the lens in the eye, leading to an altered vision quality.

This can lead to blurred vision, a common complaint that indicates type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetic Ketoacidosis is another symptom of diabetes.

Where can I learn more about diabetes, diabetes diagnosis and symptoms of diabetes?

• Diabetes symptoms
• Symptoms of high and low blood sugar
• Diabetes health numbers
• Diabetes.co.uk BMI calculator

I’m worried I might have diabetes, who should I speak to?

Speak to a doctor or healthcare expert as soon as possible. Members of the Diabetes.co.uk community may also be helpful: Diabetes Community Forum