Type 1 diabetes symptoms
Type 1 diabetes is different to its more common counterpart, type 2 diabetes.
Whilst the major symptoms of diabetes are similar for type 1 and type 2, it is worth knowing the specific symptoms of type 1 diabetes as well as more general diabetes symptoms.
- Also see: Type 1 diabetes
The 4Ts - symptoms of type 1 diabetes
Some of the most noticeable and most common symptoms of type 1 diabetes are:
- Excessive thirst
- Unusually high levels of urination
- Feeling tired all the time
- Loss of muscular bulk and unexplained weight loss
The main symptoms of type 1 diabetes are often referred to as the 4Ts of type 1 diabetes.
Other symptoms which may accompany the above symptoms are:
- Itchiness around the penis or vagina
- Blurring of vision (caused by dryness of the eyes)
- Unexpected cramping
- Skin infections
Emergency diabetes symptoms
Seek urgent medical attention if diabetes symptoms combine with any of the following:
- A serious loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- A temperature
- Pains in the stomach
- A fruity, chemical smell on the breath (most often likened to pear drops or nail varnish)
The symptoms above could be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous condition that can be life threatening if medical treatment is not provided immediately.
Around 1 in 4 people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are suffering with ketoacidosis at the time of diagnosis. Recognising the 4 main symptoms of type 1 diabetes can help to get a diagnosis before ketoacidosis sets in.
- Read more on ketoacidosis
Reference: www.diabetes.co.uk