Often overlooked 'itchy' feeling could actually be sign of diabetes

16 February 2024 , 22:00

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Early detection of diabetes is important (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)

Some of the most common symptoms of diabetes are peeing more than usual and feeling thirsty all the time, but there are some often overlooked signs we should be aware of.

Diabetes is a chronic disease which occurs when a person's blood sugar levels are too high. If left untreated, it can cause problems in almost every part of your body - from your brain to your heart and kidneys.

It is estimated that around 940,000 people in the UK are living with undiagnosed diabetes, which is why it's so important to be aware of the symptoms, so you can reach out for medical help if necessary. Although the symptoms mentioned above are more commonly known, one that people don't tend to know about is itchy genitals, or thrush.

GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, Doctor Neel Patel, listed this as one of the lesser-known signs of type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form, accounting for more than 95% of those with the condition.

According to Diabetes.co.uk, this often occurs as a result of blood sugar levels being too high. On its website, it explains: "Genital itching and burning can indicate a female or male yeast infection. Regular yeast infections are a sign of type 2 diabetes. In diabetes, blood glucose levels can go abnormally high, which can therefore provide ideal conditions for naturally present yeast to grow and also diminishes the body's ability to fight infection.

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"Diabetes can also cause a higher glucose content in the urine – another extremely suitable place for yeast to thrive."

Genital itching can be caused by a number of different things, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), thrush or a reaction to a product. Whatever the reason, it's important to speak to a GP if you're worried.

Speaking to The Express, Dr Patel also shared other symptoms of diabetes to look out for:

• Passing urine more often than usual, especially at night
• Being thirsty more often than usual
• Feeling fatigued
• Losing weight unintentionally
• Cuts taking longer to heal

According to the NHS, you're more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you're over 40 years old, or 25 if you're from an Asian, Black African or Black Caribbean ethic background, have a close relative with diabetes or are overweight and not very physically active.

If you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, or if you're worried you might have a high risk of getting type 2 diabetes, you should speak to a GP. The earlier diabetes is diagnosed and treatment started, the better.

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz