Do you often find yourself visiting the toilet more than you normally do? Do you often find yourself peeing more than you used to? If yes, that might already be a sign of having type 2 diabetes.
Frequent urination is one of the tell-tale signs of hyperglycemia or high blood sugar, the defining feature of diabetes as a disease. Another reason for frequent toilet visits is that there may be nerve damage in the digestive tract, causing diarrhea.
Either way, if you find yourself visiting the toilet often, it is best to consult your doctor as soon as you can.
Why do diabetics pee often?
Diabetes type 2 is caused by either the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body has trouble absorbing it (insulin insensitivity). Such problems with insulin can lead to high blood sugar, as insulin is the hormone that is responsible for processing sugar into the cells for energy use. This causes unprocessed sugar to accumulate in the blood.
In response, the kidneys draw out liquid to flush the excess sugar. This causes frequent urination, also called polyuria, for the diabetic. Frequent urination can also make one thirsty, so he/she ends up drinking more water than usual.
Lastly, frequent urination also causes the kidneys to expel hydrating fluids from the body. This can lead to fatigue. Other common symptoms of diabetes are related to polyuria.
Diabetes and frequent bowel movement
According to diabetes.org, about 22% of diabetics suffer from diarrhea. While the connection may be unclear, research suggests that it may be related to diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage caused by high blood sugar. Diabetic neuropathy typically begins with the feet and legs becoming numb to sensation, but other parts of the body like the digestive tract can be affected as well.
According to Healthline, another possible cause may be sorbitol, a non-nutritive sweetener used by diabetics as a substitute for sugar. It is a laxative that can be potent even for just 10 grams.
Diabetes type 2 fast facts
Other symptoms of diabetes aside from those mentioned above are blurred vision, unexpected weight loss, increased hunger, swollen gums, and slow-healing wounds. Consult your doctor as soon as you find yourself having these symptoms.
Diabetes is one of the world’s leading causes of death, according to the World Health Organization, especially if the diagnosis was not done early. Around 442 million people have diabetes, making it a global public health problem.
Diabetics are at risk of developing complications, such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, and amputation. Fortunately, medicine combined with a healthy diet and exercise can help prevent that.
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