Clinical Picture of Diabetes

Clinical Picture of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

• Characterized by classic symptoms: polyuria (increased urination), polydipsia (increased thirst due to dehydration), polyphagia (increased hunger), and unexplained weight loss.
• Patients may experience blurred vision owing to osmotic changes affecting the eye.
• Common infections include oral and genital candidiasis.
• Blood glucose levels are significantly elevated, confirming the diagnosis.
• Immediate insulin treatment is critical to manage the condition.
• Presence of glucosuria (glucose in urine) and ketonuria (ketones in urine) is common.

Type 2 Diabetes

• Often asymptomatic for extended periods; may reveal complications before diagnosis.
• Frequently associated with obesity; other symptoms include thirst, polyuria, and various infections (skin, oral, genital, urinary tract).
• Glucose levels may only be slightly elevated.
• Diagnosis relies on specific tests: fasting blood glucose levels and glucose levels measured 2 hours after a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test.