There are many factors that can contribute to type 2 diabetes. You should ask your GP for a test for diabetes, if you:
The more risk factors that apply to you, the greater your risk of having diabetes.
Many people believe that too much sugar in your diet can cause diabetes, but there is no proof to support this theory. However, people who are overweight are significantly more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, compared to people of a healthy weight.
Symptoms occur because some or all of the glucose stays in the blood and it isn't being used as fuel for energy. The body tries to reduce blood glucose levels by flushing the excess glucose out of the body in the urine.
The main symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes can include:
In type 1 diabetes the signs and symptoms are usually very obvious and develop very quickly, typically over a few weeks. The symptoms are quickly relieved once the diabetes is treated and under control.
In type 2 diabetes the signs and symptoms may not be so obvious, as the condition develops slowly over a period of years and may only be picked up in a routine medical check up. Symptoms are quickly relieved once diabetes is treated and under control.
If you have any of the above symptoms contact your GP. Early diagnosis, treatment and good control of diabetes is vital to reduce the chances of developing complications.
If your GP suspects diabetes, they will ask you for a blood sample to test. If your blood glucose levels are not high enough for your GP to diagnose diabetes, you may need to have a glucose tolerance test (also known as an oral glucose tolerance test).
This means you will be given a glucose drink and then your blood will be tested every half an hour, for two hours, to see how your body is dealing with the glucose.