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Here's a shocking fact: Some 25% of people who have type 2 diabetes don't realize it. Three ways you can stay vigilant: Recognize the sneaky symptoms Do you have frequent yeast infections? Since extra glucose, or sugar, in your bloodstream can trigger yeast growth, recurrent infections could signal that your body isn't processing sugar properly. The other common signs of diabetes—fatigue, irritability, thirst and frequent urination—are easy to miss because they develop gradually and are often attributed to stress or lack of sleep. Keep tabs on your risk factors The biggest: a family history of diabetes, being overweight or obese, African-American or Hispanic and/or over the age of 45. But don't forget about the lesser-known ones, too. Did you have gestational diabetes during pregnancy? Your risk of type 2 diabetes can double. Do you or a family member have heart disease? This also increases your chances. Discuss all of these issues with your doctor at every checkup. Don't dismiss pre-diabetes If you're pre-diabetic, your blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not high enough to qualify as diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a red flag—if you don't take action now, you'll likely develop full-blown type 2 diabetes. Check your diabetes risk Take the free test at Diabetes.org. SOURCE: Sue Kirkman, MD, senior vice president, medical affairs & community information, American Diabetes Association Stories you might like: Are you at risk? Did any of the risk factors surprise you? |
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