Strange breathe smell and 10 other 'unusual' signs of diabetes you should know
Around 850,000 Brits could be living with diabetes without being diagnosed - this may be due to the more unusual symptoms that people may struggle to recognise.
The chronic illness, which sees the body fail to produce enough insulin or struggle to use insulin properly, causes the body to have too much glucose in the blood. Whilst many people have learned how to cope with the condition, some others may have a tougher time trying to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
According to Diabetes UK, more than 4.3 million people in the UK have diabetes, whilst 850,000 people are unknowingly living with the condition. There are eleven signs that patients can look out for including rather distinct breath smells such as fruit. Other indicators can include mood swings and a change in sexual habits. Below we have explored the unique indicators.
Fruity breath has also been linked to the condition (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Darker skin on the neck
Darker skin can be a potential indicator, but particularly a different toned patch on your neck, it has been revealed. The condition, which is also known as acanthosis nigricans (AN), can also be found in the groin and armpits.
Fruity breath
This symptom is rather unusual but is specifically known as diabetic ketoacidosis. Medics have advised you to check for a fruity scent with your breath. The condition is said to be a severe side-effect and those affected are urged to seek medical help. Excess ketones in the bloodstream usually exit the body through urine. But when the body starts breaking up fat cells for energy as a replacement for being unable to use insulin, it can result in a fruity breath.
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Lightheadedness
Another symptom has been listed as lightheadedness as diabetes can cause nausea, and dizziness due to high blood sugar. An increase in high glucose levels can cause constant urination, which can lead to dehydration. If you become dehydrated it can also hinder your memory, according to Healthline.
Sexual dysfunction
Males with type 2 diabetes have been warned that it can be difficult to get an erection. Sadly, erectile dysfunction has been named as an indicator of diabetes due to high blood sugar. This is because it can disrupt the nerves and blood vessels that push the blood to the penis. Although it mainly occurs in males, women affected by high blood sugar can be affected by low arousal and a lack of lubrication.
Recurrent infections
Unfortunately, diabetes can weaken your immune system which can make you more prone to developing re-occurring infections such as yeast or skin infections. Other issues include; vaginal infections, bladder infections and skin infections.
Vision changes
Experts have also stressed that changes to your eyesight can also indicate that you could have diabetes. High blood sugar can affect the fluid levels in your eyes which can trigger blurred vision, struggle focusing on objects or swelling around your eyes.
Mood swings
Another sign of undiagnosed diabetes can be a change in your mood such as feeling more irritable than usual. The mood swings can be a result of sudden changes in blood sugar, this can happen with both low levels or above normal blood sugar levels. However, the irritatable feeling is said to only be temporary, with more normal emotions expected to be restored once your levels become more stable.
Itching
Another indicator that you might have diabetes is a sudden itchy feeling or skin peeling, especially with your hands and feet. Patients who remain undiagnosed could have damaged nerve fibres which results in itching. Furthermore, there could be a weakened amount of circulation in your limbs if you experience blood vessel damage.
Painful limbs
As previously mentioned, high sugar levels can cause nerve damage. If this reaction takes place, you may suffer from pain or cramps. It has been reported that the pain happens in the legs or feet. Alternatively, you may notice numbness, tingling or a burning sensation in your limbs.
Dry mouth
Although many people can suffer from dry mouth at times, it has also been flagged as a key sign of diabetes. This is due to high blood sugar. Anyone can have a dry mouth, but it tends to affect people with diabetes because high blood sugar decreases saliva flow. Too little saliva in the mouth is a precursor for tooth decay and gum disease. Oddly enough, dry mouth may continue even after a diabetes diagnosis. Dry mouth is a side effect of some medications used to treat diabetes.
Weight loss
You may notice a sudden drop in body weight when your body struggles to create or use insulin correctly. When this happens your cells are unable to get the right amount of glucose to use for energy. This can cause weight loss and your body is forced to burn fat and muscle mass for energy instead.
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