Recognizing the Red Flags
Diabetes is one of the most challenging diseases to manage and one with potentially life-altering consequences if not managed appropriately. This management often takes the form of a prescription medication such as Farxiga, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Farxiga works by reducing the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, leading to increased glucose excretion through urine.
8 Warning Signs of Diabetes
The warning signs for all types of diabetes are quite similar and are simple to watch for in yourself and your loved ones. However, gestational diabetes may not present noticeable symptoms, so thorough prenatal care is your best bet.
1. Unplanned weight loss
While many of us would love to lose a few extra pounds, unplanned and sudden weight loss can indicate several diseases, including diabetes. Diabetic weight loss is due to, again, a too-high level of sugar in the blood, which is eliminated. This elimination reduces the amount of calories that can be used for energy.
2. Thirst
Feeling dry and thirsty more often than usual is one of the hallmark symptoms of diabetes. Both men and women report feeling extremely thirsty, and even after drinking water, the feeling of thirst may persist. If you are more dehydrated than usual, even when drinking recommended amounts of fluids, you may want to be tested for diabetes.
3. Urination
This symptom goes hand in hand with an increase in thirst; drinking more fluids in response to being thirsty will lead to more frequent urination. However, having an increased urge to urinate is because of the high levels of sugar found in the diabetics' bloodstream. This increased blood sugar causes the kidneys to work harder to process the sugar and thus flush the excess sugar out through urination.
4. Fatigue
Many of us feel tired due to the demands of our busy lives; work, family, volunteerism and leisure activities can wear us down! However, fatigue should not be ignored as it is also a symptom of diabetes. Due to the excess of sugar in the blood, our body cannot process this energy source effectively. Constant dehydration can also cause one to feel worn out and tired all the time.
5. Changes in vision
Like weight loss, any sudden or dramatic changes in your vision can indicate many health issues, including diabetes. Just like the other warning signs of diabetes, blurred vision can indicate many health conditions and should be addressed immediately. High blood sugar levels pull fluid from the eyes, causing blurred vision. An early diagnosis and diligent management are critical to avoid vision problems and diabetic blindness.
6. Slow healing and infections
When we cannot regulate our blood sugars because of diabetes, our blood flow is worsened. This means that any wounds may take much longer to heal, and there is a higher risk of infections. It's essential to manage any injuries carefully and to keep on top of blood sugar levels through monitoring.
7. Sore gums
Proper dental hygiene and regular dental checkups are vital steps in managing diabetes, and sore and bleeding gums can be a symptom of diabetes. If you usually have healthy gums but notice that they are now red, swollen and bleed easily, it may be a symptom of diabetes.
8. Nerve damage in the hands and feet
While it's not necessarily a common symptom of diabetes and can be quite severe once the disease is well situated, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet should be taken seriously. This diabetic nerve damage is known as neuropathy, and at its most profound, it can lead to severe infections and even amputation.
Understanding Diabetes
Except for Type 1 diabetes, this complex disease is largely preventable through sound lifestyle choices. Because diabetes can be life-threatening, all of us must recognize and react to the many warning signs that indicate diabetes is present in the body.
First, let's review the various types of diabetes, but the warning signs for each type can be similar. Your response to the warning signs of diabetes will always be the same; seek an immediate consultation with your healthcare provider for an accurate and thorough assessment and diagnosis. There are several treatments available to help you manage your diabetes. One such prescription drug is called Jardiance; this medication helps to regulate blood sugar levels and ease diabetic symptoms.
Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed early in life, but it can occur at any age. Type 1 diabetes is linked to genetics and possibly viruses; the pancreas produces insufficient insulin to process blood sugars. Because the pancreas does not produce insulin alone, supplementary insulin must be provided through injections. Type 1 diabetes is not preventable and is currently without a cure.
Type 2 diabetes is also due to a failure of the pancreas to create and regulate just the right amount of insulin in response to sugar levels in the blood. Like Type 1 diabetes, there is no cure, and treatment plans are complex and individualized. Lifestyle factors play a massive role in developing Type 2 diabetes, so staying active, maintaining healthy body composition and eating nutritiously can go a long way in preventing this disease. Avoiding excessive weight gain through overeating is excellent for the prevention of diabetes as well as staying well overall.
Gestational diabetes may develop during pregnancy, and the cause is not entirely clear. It’s important to note that if diabetes is first diagnosed during pregnancy, it can lead to Type 2 diabetes following birth. Some research indicates that carrying excess body weight going into a pregnancy may increase your risk of gestational diabetes.
Farxiga for Type 2 Diabetes
Farxiga, or dapagliflozin, is a medication used for type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor class, working on the kidneys to lower blood sugar by promoting glucose excretion through urine. Commonly prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes, it can be used alone or with other antidiabetic drugs. Farxiga has shown cardiovascular benefits and is approved to reduce heart failure hospitalization risk in certain cases. Side effects may include urinary tract infections and increased urination. Always use under healthcare professional guidance. For the latest information, consult a healthcare provider or medical resources.
Diabetes Unveiled
In summary, it's essential to pay attention to signs that could mean someone has diabetes. These signs can help us find out about it early, which is super helpful. Things like feeling extra thirsty a lot, going to the bathroom more than usual or having trouble seeing are clues we shouldn't ignore. If we notice these signs, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor. By knowing about these signs and taking action, we can make sure we stay healthy and manage diabetes well.
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