You May Have Diabetes and Not Know It

(HealthScoutNews) -- As many as one third of Americans who have diabetes don't know it and may need treatment, government experts say.

"Treatment" in this instance means learning to manage a disease that, if not controlled, can cause or contribute to kidney failure, blindness, heart disease and stroke. Ironically, two of the principal treatment protocols for diabetes -- healthy eating and physical activity -- are identical to practices recommended to prevent diabetes.

Individuals most at risk for diabetes include those who have an inactive lifestyle, a family history of diabetes and an overabundance of body mass. If you know someone fitting that profile, and they often complain of excessive thirst, excessive hunger and/or excessive urination, suggest that they report those issues to their doctor.

If their symptoms include blurred vision, unintended weight loss, tingling or numbness in feet or hands, sores that are slow to heal, and/or dry itchy skin, offer to dial their doctor's number.

Unfortunately, diabetes sufferers may show only a few, or none, of those symptoms. Their condition can only be accurately diagnosed through blood tests.

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