You cut your leg two weeks ago playing basketball, and while you didn’t need stitches, the wound has not healed. You’re surprised when your doctor checks your blood sugar. What’s going on? People who have diabetes have a harder time healing wounds. This is one of the four odd symptoms of diabetes that people may not know.
You recognize the main symptoms of diabetes: thirst, excessive urination, and fatigue. Insulin, produced in the pancreas, is used by the body to control the blood sugar. If the body doesn’t supply enough insulin or can’t use the insulin, diabetes is the result. The American Diabetic Association reported that in 2018, 34.2 million adults in the United States had diabetes, and of those 7.3 million adults were undiagnosed.
An Itchy Groin
A diabetic person is predisposed to fungal infections, like jock itch. When your blood sugar rises, the excess sugar causes yeast to flourish. Burning, itching, redness, in your groin area are tell-tale signs of jock itch. These infections are easily treated with antifungal creams and a dry groin area.
Sexual Challenges
Erectile dysfunction, the inability to prolong your erection, is an obstacle to an enjoyable sex life. Diabetes causes nerve and blood vessel damage because of an imbalance of glucose. Reduced testosterone levels, caused by diabetes, affects your sexual desires. Exercise, weight loss and blood sugar control will help with your problem, but seeking out medical advice is your best bet.
Weakened Muscles
Aging causes loss of muscle mass. Diabetic men see a quicker decline in skeletal muscle mass because the growth of muscle cells is suppressed by high blood sugar. To slow your muscle mass loss, exercise and treatment of your diabetes is key.
If you notice these symptoms, it is crucial that you contact your healthcare provider for an exam.
