Diabetes is a chronic health condition associated with high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. This happens because the body either does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar), or it cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. There is Type 1 diabetes, where the body’s immune system attacks insulin. Type 2 diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, is another common type of diabetes. Eating medicines on time is a must to control diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, you will have to watch your diet as well to manage diabetes. To prevent complications like heart disease, and eye and kidney issues, watch out for symptoms of uncontrolled diabetes.

What leads to uncontrolled diabetes?

Uncontrolled diabetes means your blood sugar level is very high. There are several factors that can contribute to uncontrolled diabetes, shares endocrinologist Dr Manish Srivastava.

• Not following prescribed medication or insulin regimens.
• Consuming high-sugar and high-fat foods can spike blood sugar levels.
• Lack of physical activity.
• Stress and illness can affect blood sugar levels and the effectiveness of insulin.
• Failing to regularly check blood sugar levels can lead to unawareness of the level of blood sugar.

What are the symptoms of uncontrolled diabetes?

Here are some of the most common signs of high or low blood sugar levels:

1. Increased thirst

Healthy blood sugar levels should be between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) before eating and under 180 mg/dL two hours after your meals, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When blood sugar levels are high, excess glucose spills into the urine. Glucose in the urine draws water from the blood through osmosis, leading to dehydration. This triggers the brain’s thirst mechanism, explains Dr Srivastava.

2. Frequent urination

Glucose appears in the urine when blood sugar levels exceed 180 mg/dL. To expel excess glucose, the kidneys filter it out of the blood and excrete it in the urine. This process requires more water, leading to increased urine production.

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3. Extreme hunger

Even though the blood sugar levels are high, cells can get starved of glucose due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. When this happens, a signal is sent to the brain that the body needs more food, causing increased hunger.

4. Unintended weight loss

When cells can’t access glucose for energy, the body starts breaking down fat and muscle tissue for energy, leading to weight loss. This occurs even if calorie intake is normal or increased, says the expert.

5. Fatigue

Without adequate insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream rather than entering cells to be used for energy. This results in a lack of energy and persistent tiredness. Fatigue can occur with moderately elevated glucose levels (above 140 mg/dL) and worsens with higher levels.

6. Blurred vision

High blood sugar causes changes in the shape of the lens of the eye by drawing fluid into the lens, distorting vision. Over time, it can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to more severe vision problems.

7. Slow-healing sores

Elevated glucose levels impair blood flow, which can delay the healing process. Also, high blood sugar can hinder the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, says the expert. In fact, high blood sugar can create an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi, leading to recurring infections, especially in the skin, gums, urinary tract, and genital area.

8. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, particularly in the extremities. This can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in hands or feet, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy.

What are the ways to control diabetes?

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to several serious health complications, including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, and even death. High blood sugar causes around 20 percent of cardiovascular deaths, as per the World Health Organization. It can also lead to kidney failure, and eye damage, says the expert.

Follow these tips for diabetes management:

• Follow a balanced diet, which means eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains as well as lean proteins. Eat less food with sugars and refined carbohydrates.
• Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week, as exercise helps lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Maintain healthy weight so that the blood sugar levels get controlled.
• Take prescribed medications, including insulin and oral hypoglycemics for Type 2 diabetes.
• Regularly check blood glucose levels to track your progress and adjust diabetes treatment as necessary.

By knowing the symptoms of uncontrolled diabetes, and managing it, you can reduce the risk of complications associated with this chronic condition.