As of: February 19, 2024, 4:49 a.m
By: Natalie Hull-Deichsel
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Type 2 diabetes in particular appears to be becoming a widespread disease.
Every year, more and more people in Germany are suffering from diabetes, which can have devastating consequences.
Every year, around 560,000 people in Germany are diagnosed with diabetes, according to the
German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD)
.
It is estimated that around eight million people in this country suffer from this chronic metabolic disease, in which the hormone insulin plays a key role.
Untreated diabetes can lead to permanent damage to the eyes, kidneys and nerves, with amputations being common long-term consequences, particularly in connection with diabetes foot syndrome.
Diabetics have a threefold increased risk of heart attack or stroke and a shortened life expectancy.
Type 2 diabetes often develops gradually, without noticeable symptoms, and goes unnoticed for years.
It is important that risk groups, such as people who are overweight, pay attention to certain signs.
Prevent diabetes in time
People who are initially diagnosed with preliminary stages of diabetes (pre-diabetes) can and should do something specifically about it.
Even small adjustments in lifestyle can improve insulin sensitivity in the body, actually prevent diabetes and thus prevent serious complications.
Sign of too much sugar in the blood: Watch out for 14 possible diabetes symptoms
Diabetes is also popularly known as diabetes.
Anyone who has high blood sugar levels and is developing diabetes will feel more thirsty.
The kidney tries to excrete the excess sugar (glucose) in the body by binding water and thus removing fluid.
The result: a strong feeling of thirst.
© BRUNO / IMAGE POINT FR / BSIP / Imago
It is estimated that one in five adults in Germany has abnormal blood sugar levels, and around two percent of Germans live with the as yet undetected, undiagnosed diabetes.
Signs of diabetes or precursors (pre-diabetes) are:
Strong feeling of thirst
Frequent urination
Weak drive
fatigue
Fatigue, which can also indicate a fatty liver
Dizziness, and in severe cases also loss of consciousness
Blurred vision
Dry skin and/or itching
High resting heart rate
Loss of appetite and feeling of hunger alternating
Frequent bladder infections
Cramps in the calves or feet
Pain in feet
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.