Symptoms and risk factors

All forms of diabetes cause the same main symptoms, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, and a 'run-down,' tired feeling. Additional symptoms may include tingling in the hands and feet, blurred vision, itching skin, and slow healing cuts and bruises. Diabetes can produce symptoms early, or they may not appear until years after the onset of the disease. In those cases, diabetes is usually detected during a routine physical exam, either through a urinalysis or blood test. People most at risk of getting diabetes are overweight women over forty, although it can occur in virtually anyone. Heredity also seems to be an important factor. The disease itself carries many risks, including eye disorders, nerve disease, kidney failure, stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure. For more information about the symptoms and risks factors of diabetes, contact your physician.