Blurry vision, pigmentation and numbness on legs: 10 signs of diabetes in women

Diabetes has been dubbed a ‘silent killer’ as it rarely shows any symptoms, especially in women. Millions of women around the world are diagnosed with diabetes every year, while many others are prediabetics. Diabetes causes body weight fluctuation, drains away energy, and adversely affects the functioning of the heart, kidneys and eyesight. It could even lead to infertility in women, as the female body processes glucose and insulin differently from the male body.

The hormone changes during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause could cause fluctuation in the blood sugar level. In women, the signs of diabetes are often mistaken for other diseases or health conditions, which then leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Besides, diabetes affects women more severely than men. For instance, women with diabetes are more prone to heart disease than women who are not diabetic patients. So, it is essential to recognise the early signs of diabetes. These are some of the most prominent symptoms of diabetes in women.

Prolonged exhaustion
Severe and prolonged exhaustion even after sleeping for eight hours could be a sign of diabetes. The high blood sugar level prevents the cells from absorbing glucose, causing energy loss. This can then make you crave sugary treats that could boost energy. However, this could only make things worse. Frequent urination, increased thirst, and blurry vision are also signs of diabetes. Consult a healthcare professional if exhaustion persists despite taking sufficient rest.

Infection
High blood sugar level could lead to yeast infection in vagina and urinary tract.
Blurry vision
Blurry vision is one of the early symptoms of diabetes. A high glucose level can make the lens in the eye fragile, causing difficulty focusing. This could gradually lead to a loss of eyesight.
Unexplained weight loss
Losing body weight without any reason could be a sign of diabetes. In this condition, the body cannot utilise glucose and relies on fat and muscle mass for energy to perform daily chores and activities.

Increased thirst
Increased thirst and frequent urination are symptoms that are often ignored. When the blood sugar rises, the body draws fluids from the tissues, causing thirst. Water intake increases when you are constantly thirsty, which makes you take more bathroom breaks.
Delay in wound healing
Usually, a small wound heals within days. However, wounds or cuts can be delayed in diabetic patients. High blood sugar could disrupt blood circulation and the immune system, delaying healing and increasing the risk of infection.

Discolouration on skin
Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterised by darkening or discolouration of the skin, typically around the neck and armpits. This is a common symptom in women who have insulin resistance. The skin on the folds, like the neck, armpit and groin, could be darkened. If you notice any discolouration in these areas, then do not hesitate to test your blood sugar level, as it may be a symptom of type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. It is possible to reduce these symptoms by following a healthy diet, maintaining optimal body weight and regular exercising.
Mood swings
Diabetes is not just a physical condition, as fluctuating blood sugar levels could impact our mental state, concentration and memory. So, prolonged forgetfulness, anxiety and restlessness too could be signs of diabetes.
Numbness on hands and legs
Diabetic neuropathy begins slowly, with symptoms like numbness in hands and legs. However, this condition can gradually injure the nerves.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS isn’t caused by diabetes, but they are correlated. Most women with PCOS have insulin resistance. Those who suffer from irregular periods or severe acne should test their blood sugar levels to rule out the possibility of diabetes.
What to do?
Looking out for these symptoms is the primary step. Blood sugar levels could be monitored with blood tests like A1C, fasting glucose, and oral glucose tolerance tests. Heredity plays an essential role in diabetes, so enquiring whether there is a history of diabetes in your family will be helpful. Physical activities like yoga and dancing will keep you healthy and active. Meanwhile, a fibre-rich diet with leafy vegetables, oats, chia seeds, and pulses will keep blood sugar within limits. Giving up sweet treats or sugary foods will make a massive difference, as food items like healthy smoothies could increase blood sugar levels. Moreover, reducing stress and getting good sleep at night are also important.

What are the factors that increase the risk of diabetes in women?
Family history, obesity, belly fat, a lethargic lifestyle, diet containing refined carbs, added sugar, prenatal hormone changes like gestational diabetes, PCOS and menopause are some of the factors that increase the risk of diabetes in women. Besides, high blood pressure, cholesterol and a family history of heart disease make women more prone to diabetes. Smoking, stress and lack of sleep may also lead to diabetes.

Women can get diabetes even if they have a lower BMI than men. So, making certain lifestyle changes and taking blood tests at regular intervals is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. A nutrient-rich diet and regular exercise can control blood sugar levels and significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Moreover, they can improve insulin resistance and reduce blood sugar levels as well as body weight.