Increased urination (sometimes as often as every hour)
Unusual weight loss or gain
Fatigue
Nausea, perhaps vomiting
Blurred vision
In women, frequent vaginal infections
In men and women, yeast infections
Dry mouth
Slow-healing sores or cuts
Itching skin, especially in the groin or vaginal area
Call Your Doctor If:
You feel nauseated, weak, and excessively thirsty; are urinating very frequently; have abdominal pain; or are breathing more deeply and rapidly than normal - perhaps with sweet breath that smells like nail polish remover. You may need immediate medical attention for ketoacidosis - a potentially deadly complication of type 1 diabetes.
You are having weakness or fainting spells; are experiencing a rapid heartbeat, trembling, and excessive sweating; and feel irritable, hungry, or suddenly drowsy. You could be developing hypoglycemia - low blood sugar that can occur with diabetes treatment. You may need to eat or drink a carbohydrate snack quickly to avoid more serious complications.
Reviewed by Tracy Shuman MD, July 2005.
Sources: American Family Physician. National Diabetes Education Program. American Diabetes Association. Clinical Diabetes Journal.
