Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes, may not present obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, the following manifestations may occur:

1. Increased thirst and frequent urination: Due to high blood glucose levels, type 2 diabetes increases the kidney's filtration activity and raises glucose concentration in urine, leading to symptoms of polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (frequent urination).

2. Increased appetite with weight loss: Although patients may experience an increased appetite, insulin resistance prevents effective utilization of glucose by the body, resulting in insufficient energy extraction from food. This leads to increased hunger and food intake despite weight loss.

3. Fatigue and weakness: The reduced ability of cells to utilize glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes results in insufficient energy supply, causing feelings of tiredness, weakness, and lack of energy.

4. Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can impair normal eye function and reduce the eye's ability to adjust focus, causing blurred vision when looking at objects at near or far distances.

5. Frequent infections: Elevated blood glucose levels can suppress immune system function, making individuals with diabetes more susceptible to infections, particularly urinary tract and skin infections.

6. Neurological symptoms: Patients with diabetes may experience symptoms related to nerve damage, such as numbness or abnormal sensations in the hands and feet, which may result from high blood glucose damaging the nervous system.

7. Hypertension: Due to the effects of insulin resistance and high blood glucose, patients with type 2 diabetes are prone to vascular constriction and elevated blood pressure.