Recognising the Unique Symptoms Of Diabetes in Women
Diabetes is a prevalent, chronic metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While men and women can both develop diabetes, it is crucial to recognise that women may experience unique symptoms that often go unnoticed.
While some of these symptoms can be subtle, others are often mistaken for other health conditions.
Whether you are a woman concerned about your risk for diabetes or looking for information for a loved one, this article will tell you about the unique symptoms of diabetes in women and how to spot them!
Common Diabetes Symptoms
The classic symptoms of diabetes that are seen in both genders include
- Increased frequency of urination, especially at night
- Increased thirst
- Losing weight without trying
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling in the arms and feet
- Increased frequency of infections
- Wound or sores that heal slowly
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes take several years to develop. Infact, in the early stages, there may be no signs or symptoms, making it hard to diagnose.
Unique Diabetes Symptoms in Women
Diabetes affects women differently than men. A few symptoms of diabetes unique to women are
1) Vaginal fungal infections
Fungal infections are prevalent in moist areas of the body, including the vagina. Also called thrush, these infections tend to occur more commonly when the blood sugar levels are high and the immunity is lowered;
Both of these are seen to occur in women with diabetes. Women with diabetes have an increased risk of developing Candida infections (a type of fungal infection).
2) Frequent urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in individuals with diabetes. Due to shorter urethras and their proximity to moist and warm areas of the vulva and perianal areas, women tend to develop UTIs more often than men. These factors put women with diabetes at high risk of developing UTIs.
3) Menstrual irregularities
Menstrual irregularities are an indicator of women’s health. It is closely related to conditions like obesity and PCOS. Disrupted hormonal levels in the body are said to be the link between menstrual cycle irregularities and type 2 diabetes in women.
4) Sexual dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction may be seen in women with diabetes, and these include symptoms like vaginal dryness, lack of libido, discomfort or pain during sexual activity and lack of orgasm.
5) Fertility issues
Diabetes has been associated with premature menopause in women. Lack of menstrual periods (amenorrhoea) may occur in women with diabetes in their reproductive years. Women with diabetes often struggle with irregular cycles and ovulation, which can give rise to fertility issues.
Risks from untreated diabetes?
- Foot Problems
- Kidney Problems
- Vision Loss
- Heart Diseases
- Nerve damage
- Other brain and heart conditions such as hypertension etc.
Diabetes Prevention steps/tips/methods
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Eat and sleep on time, take your medications on time, and try not to be stressed.
2. Lose Extra Weight: Shedding excess weight reduces the risk of diabetes.
3. Be Physically Active: Regular physical activity helps prevent diabetes; aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
4. Eat Healthy: Include more plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
5. Healthy Fats Consumption: Opt for sources of healthy fats, such as avocados and nuts, to lower diabetes risk.
6. Avoid Fad Diets: Avoid fad diets and adopt sustainable, balanced eating habits.
7. Blood Check-Ups: Regular Blood Check-Ups and monitoring
FitterTake
- Diabetes affects women differently than men and recognising the unique symptoms is critical for early detection and successful management of the condition.
- Women with diabetes are at a higher risk for certain complications, infections, and skin problems.
- Women must be aware of their risk factors, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and undergo regular screenings to detect any potential signs of diabetes.
It is never too late to make positive changes and take control of your health. If you have diabetes or have been diagnosed with prediabetes, speak to our experts at Fitterfly to lower your risk and manage your blood sugar levels better.
Explore our Diabetes Care Program here to learn about your chances for diabetes reversal!
You can also speak to one of our counselors by just giving us a missed call at 08069450746, and we will get back to you.
This blog provides general information for educational and informational purposes only and shouldn't be seen as professional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of symptoms of diabetes in women?
Some of the first signs and symptoms of diabetes in women can be delayed periods, weight gain, and urogenital infections besides some of the commonest symptoms as discussed above.
What are few signs your blood sugar is too high?
Skin pigmentation (acanthosis), skin tags, slow wound healing, itchy skin, tingling and numbness in hands & feet.
Fitterfly's Diabetes Prime Program
clinical term for Diabetes Reversal