13 February 2024 , 14:20
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An expert as warned of the three crucial signs of diabetes that can appear first thing in the morning.
Diabetes symptoms aren’t always the easiest to spot. The first warning signs are often reluctant to appear, leaving many patients in the dark. According to the NHS, many people can go unaware of type 2 diabetes for years because health red flags tend to be so general.
However, this makes it all the more important to be symptom aware, and take note of any changes. A pharmacist has outlined what to look for first thing in the morning. Abbas Kanani, from Chemist Click, said you may experience three key sensations soon after you wake up. Speaking to Express.co.uk Kanani said: “You may notice you have increased thirst, or hunger, or feel the need to pee frequently.” Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is one of the “initial” symptoms of diabetes, according to Diabetes.co.uk.
While everyone is bound to get thirsty from time to time, feeling thirsty all the time or your thirst being stronger than usual and continuing even after you drink could be a sign. Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is considered one of the three main signs of diabetes, the health portal explains.
Sugar is the main form of energy your body uses from the food you eat. But without enough insulin, your body can't use glucose for energy. This lack of energy usage can prompt you to be hungrier and eat more.
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Three key sensations felt in the morning could mean you have diabetes (Getty Images/iStockphoto)The last sign the pharmacist referred to - polyuria, or urinating more frequently than usual - details passing excessive amounts of urine each time you pee. As the excess sugar in your blood can’t be absorbed, it ends up in the urine where it draws more water. This can result in unusually large volumes of urine.
The NHS recommends speaking to your GP “as soon as possible” if you experience warning signs of diabetes. The pharmacist explained that breakfast is a crucial meal for diabetics because it helps regulate blood sugar metabolism.
He said: “The body's blood sugar levels are naturally high when we wake up and it is generally recommended to eat between one and one and half hours after waking. Some studies, such as this one by the International Journal of Epidemiology, have suggested that eating an earlier breakfast may help to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.”
The three morning signs of diabetes:
- Constantly feeling thirsty
- Polyphagia (excessive hunger)
- Urge to urinate more frequently than usual