According to the American Diabetes Association, detecting and treating diabetes early can decrease one’s chances of developing the complications of the disease. Early signs of diabetes in women are slightly different for type 1 versus type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may include frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, weight loss, irritability and fatigue. Signs of type 2 diabetes may include those of type 1 diabetes, as well as blurred vision, slow-healing cuts and bruises, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet and frequent infections.
Many people have trouble recognizing signs of type 1 diabetes as these symptoms can be easily attributed to other medical conditions or lifestyle factors. It can be even more difficult to recognize early signs of diabetes in women, as some type 1 diabetes symptoms, such as fatigue or irritability, can frequently be attributed to premenstrual syndrome or pregnancy.
In addition to the general signs of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, pregnant women should also look out for symptoms of gestational diabetes, a special type of diabetes that can develop in later stages of pregnancy.
Gestational Diabetes: Signs and Risk Factors
Women who have never been diagnosed as diabetic may develop diabetes in pregnancy. This occurs as the placenta produces hormones that may interfere with the mother’s ability to produce insulin. Unless there are certain risk factors present, doctors typically don’t screen for gestational diabetes until late in the second trimester of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually disappears after the baby is born.
Rarely, women with gestational diabetes may experience increased thirst or urination. However, gestational diabetes generally presents no symptoms at all, which is why screening is important. Since there are often no early signs of diabetes in women who are pregnant, doctors often rely on risk factors to determine when to screen. Risk factors may include obesity, gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, sugar in the urine or a family history of diabetes. If any of these risk factors are present, a doctor may recommend screening for gestational diabetes earlier in the pregnancy.
Managing Diabetes in Women
Recognizing early signs of diabetes in women can facilitate early treatment and management of the disease. Women with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose levels and take steps to bring their levels within a healthy range. Proper diet and exercise can go a long way in controlling blood glucose levels. Healthy meal plans for women with diabetes are rich in whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables and tend to limit sweets. Special diets may be recommended for women with gestational diabetes. All women with diabetes should consult their physicians to determine what steps and medications may be necessary to control their diabetes so that they may lead full, active lives.
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