More than four million people in the UK have a diabetes diagnosis, but there are an estimated further one million people with the disease who do not know they have it.
The figures come from Diabetes UK, which also says that nine in every 10 people with diabetes have type 2, which in many cases can be prevented. Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease or stroke, according to the NHS.
Whichever type of diabetes a person has, it can lead to excess sugar in the blood. If you have high blood sugar for a long period of time, it can also result in permanent damage to parts of the body such as the eyes, nerves, kidneys and blood vessels.
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Two common symptoms of high blood sugar, also known as hyperglycaemia, occur within the mouth. These are a dry mouth and a breath that smells “fruity”.
Other warning signs include increased thirst, needing to urinate more frequently, and feeling or being sick. Tiredness, blurred vision and unintentional weight loss could also be warning signs.
The NHS also lists tummy pain and recurrent infections such as thrush, bladder infections (cystitis) and skin infections, as symptoms.
As symptoms of hyperglycaemia can also be caused by undiagnosed diabetes, the NHS advises you see a GP if this applies to you. Many people, it says, have type 2 diabetes for years without realising because the early symptoms tend to be general.
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Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
