{"id":3155,"date":"2024-04-08T13:40:00","date_gmt":"2024-04-08T13:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=3155"},"modified":"2026-01-08T11:57:17","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:57:17","slug":"a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus","title":{"rendered":"A Quick Reference Guide to Signs and Symptoms Associated with Diabetes Mellitus"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Hypoglycemia\" >Hypoglycemia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Hyperglycemia\" >Hyperglycemia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Acanthosis_Nigricans\" >Acanthosis Nigricans<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Vascular_Changes\" >Vascular Changes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Explore_Other_Common_Conditions\" >Explore Other Common Conditions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#About_the_Author\" >About the Author<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#Reviewers\" >Reviewers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-signs-and-symptoms-associated-with-diabetes-mellitus\/#References\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve probably heard of <strong>diabetes<\/strong>, know someone with diabetes, or have been diagnosed with it yourself, as it\u2019s one of the most common conditions in the United States, with <strong>11% of the population diagnosed<\/strong>, and <strong>Singapore (10.5%)<\/strong>, <strong>Malta (10%)<\/strong>, and <strong>Portugal (10%)<\/strong> following close behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Diabetes_mellitus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Diabetes mellitus<\/strong><\/a>, commonly referred to as just \u201c<strong>diabetes<\/strong>,\u201d describes a group of <strong>chronic metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels<\/strong>. There are <strong>two types of diabetes<\/strong>: <strong>type 1<\/strong> and <strong>type 2<\/strong>. <strong>Type 1<\/strong> is characterized by an absence of insulin production due to an autoimmune attack on the cells within the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. In <strong>type 2<\/strong>, the pancreas can still produce a small amount of insulin, but the cells in the body, like muscle, fat, and liver cells, are resistant and don\u2019t respond to the insulin. There are a variety of <strong>signs and symptoms related to uncontrolled diabetes<\/strong>, like <strong>hypoglycemia<\/strong>, <strong>hyperglycemia<\/strong>, <strong>acanthosis nigricans<\/strong>, and <strong>vascular changes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s take a closer look at some of these <strong>signs and symptoms commonly associated with diabetes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"632\" height=\"832\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ba06bd.png\" alt=\"Human figure indicating dizziness with their hand to their head.\" class=\"wp-image-3157\" style=\"width:359px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ba06bd.png 632w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ba06bd.png?resize=228,300 228w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 632px) 100vw, 632px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hypoglycemia\"><\/span>Hypoglycemia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Approach_to_hypoglycemia:_Clinical_sciences\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hypoglycemia<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>occurs when <strong>blood glucose levels drop below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg\/dL)<\/strong> in adults. Hypoglycemia can be <strong>life-threatening<\/strong> as glucose is the main energy source in the body, and a lack of glucose can lead to death if not treated promptly. Hypoglycemia typically occurs as a side effect when an individual takes their <strong>antidiabetic medication<\/strong> without eating, is on a dosage too high for their current health status, or engages in strenuous exercise. This can occur more commonly with the use of <strong>insulin<\/strong> or <strong>sulfonylureas (e.g., glyburide)<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia<\/strong> include <strong>hunger<\/strong>, <strong>fatigue<\/strong>, <strong>shaking (i.e., tremors)<\/strong>, <strong>excessive sweating (i.e., diaphoresis)<\/strong>, <strong>pale skin<\/strong>, <strong>headache<\/strong>, and <strong>dizziness<\/strong>. If hypoglycemia persists, symptoms can worsen, thereby causing <strong>confusion<\/strong>, <strong>slurred speech<\/strong>, <strong>fainting<\/strong>, and <strong>coma<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <strong>diagnosis<\/strong> is made by evaluating blood glucose and is confirmed if levels are below 70 mg\/dL. <strong>Treatment<\/strong> involves increasing levels back within a normal range by eating or drinking <strong>15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates<\/strong> (e.g., glucose tablets and fruit juice). In severe cases, some individuals may be unable to tolerate oral intake, so <strong>injectable medications (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Glucagon\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">glucagon<\/a>)<\/strong> can be given to increase glucose. Following treatment, glucose should be rechecked in 15 minutes, and treatment can be repeated as needed until levels stabilize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"858\" height=\"891\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_314527.png\" alt=\"Person indicating they have a headache, holding a glass of water, thinking about needing to urinate.\" class=\"wp-image-3158\" style=\"width:391px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_314527.png 858w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_314527.png?resize=289,300 289w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_314527.png?resize=768,798 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 858px) 100vw, 858px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hyperglycemia\"><\/span>Hyperglycemia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Conversely, <strong>hyperglycemia<\/strong> occurs when <strong>blood glucose levels are greater than 125 mg\/dL while fasting or greater than 180 mg\/dL two hours after eating<\/strong>. Hyperglycemia can be due to <strong>disorders of the pancreas<\/strong> (e.g., chronic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Pancreatitis:_Pathology_review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pancreatitis<\/a>, cancer), <strong>endocrine disorders<\/strong> (e.g., Cushing syndrome), or the use of <strong>certain medications<\/strong> (e.g., corticosteroids). However, <strong>diabetes is the most common cause of hyperglycemia<\/strong>. Normally, when glucose levels increase, like after eating a meal, insulin is released and attaches to insulin receptors on the body\u2019s cells. This allows glucose to move from the blood and into the body\u2019s tissues, which decreases the amount of glucose in the blood. But when insulin levels are low or absent, or if the cell\u2019s insulin receptors cannot respond properly to the insulin, the amount of glucose in the blood increases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia<\/strong> include <strong>increased thirst (i.e., polydipsia)<\/strong>, <strong>increased urination (i.e., polyuria)<\/strong>, <strong>increased hunger (i.e., polyphagia)<\/strong>, and <strong>unexplained weight loss<\/strong>. Eventually, <strong>neurological symptoms<\/strong>, such as <strong>fatigue<\/strong> and <strong>altered mental status<\/strong>, can occur. There are two types of life-threatening medical emergencies associated with hyperglycemia: <strong>diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)<\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Hyperosmolar_hyperglycemic_state:_Clinical_sciences\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS<\/a><\/strong>. <strong>DKA<\/strong> occurs when glucose levels are greater than 250 mg\/dL, and there&#8217;s no insulin for the body\u2019s cells to use. In response, the body starts to break down fat to use as fuel, which causes a buildup of acids in the blood called <strong>ketones<\/strong>. <strong>Signs and symptoms of DKA<\/strong> include <strong>dehydration<\/strong>, <strong>nausea<\/strong>, <strong>vomiting<\/strong>, and <strong>altered mental status<\/strong>. <strong>Kussmaul respirations<\/strong> may also be observed, which are rapid, deep breaths that occur at a consistent pace in an attempt to breathe out the excess acid in the form of carbon dioxide. On the other hand, <strong>HHS<\/strong> occurs when blood glucose levels are greater than 600 mg\/dL with an increased serum osmolality but without ketoacidosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Diagnosis of hyperglycemia<\/strong> can be made by obtaining a blood glucose level and is confirmed if the patient\u2019s fasting plasma glucose is greater than 125 mg\/dL or greater than 180 mg\/dL two hours after eating. A <strong>hemoglobin A1C<\/strong>, which is a blood test that can provide an average of the blood glucose over the three prior months, may also be done and can confirm hyperglycemia secondary to diabetes if levels are greater than 6.5%. <strong>Treatment for hyperglycemia<\/strong> depends on the underlying cause; in the setting of <strong>type 1 diabetes<\/strong>, treatment typically involves <strong>insulin and proper nutrition<\/strong>. <strong>Treatment of type 2 diabetes<\/strong> includes <strong>lifestyle modifications<\/strong>, like <strong>diet and exercise<\/strong>, as well as <strong>oral or injectable antidiabetic medications<\/strong>, as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Acanthosis_Nigricans\"><\/span>Acanthosis Nigricans<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Pigmentation_skin_disorders:_Pathology_review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Acanthosis nigricans<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0refers to a <strong>dark discoloration and thickening of the skin<\/strong> that can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly located in <strong>skin folds<\/strong>. It\u2019s frequently associated with <strong>type 2 diabetes<\/strong>, as well as other <strong>metabolic disorders<\/strong>, like <strong>polycystic ovary syndrome<\/strong>, that are characterized by <strong>insulin resistance<\/strong>. Insulin resistance can stimulate the proliferation of skin cells, which leads to this characteristic appearance of the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Individuals with <strong>acanthosis nigricans<\/strong> typically present with <strong>dark (i.e., dark brown or black), velvety, and thickened patches of skin<\/strong> on body folds, such as the <strong>armpits, neck, and groin<\/strong>. Individuals may report associated <strong>itchiness<\/strong>, though typically, there are no other symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans<\/strong> is based on a <strong>physical examination<\/strong>. However, further tests are typically performed to identify the underlying cause, including <strong>blood glucose<\/strong> and <strong>hemoglobin A1C<\/strong> to assess for diabetes, specifically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Treatment of acanthosis nigricans<\/strong> primarily involves <strong>treating the underlying condition<\/strong>, and once the underlying condition is managed, the skin is typically restored. For rapid improvement of acanthosis nigricans, individuals may be prescribed <strong>retinoic acid derivatives<\/strong>, like <strong>tretinoin gel<\/strong>; <strong>vitamin D analogs<\/strong>, like <strong>calcipotriol cream<\/strong>; or <strong>oral retinoids<\/strong>, such as <strong>isotretinoin<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_fa56ce.png\" alt=\"Illustration of vascular structure.\" class=\"wp-image-3159\" style=\"width:520px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_fa56ce.png 950w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_fa56ce.png?resize=300,126 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_fa56ce.png?resize=768,323 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vascular_Changes\"><\/span>Vascular Changes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lastly, <strong>vascular changes<\/strong> are commonly seen in <strong>long-standing, uncontrolled diabetes<\/strong> and involve <strong>damage to blood vessels<\/strong> that supply oxygen and nutrients to particular structures, like the <strong>eyes<\/strong> and <strong>kidneys<\/strong>. Both <strong>microvascular (i.e., small blood vessels, like capillaries)<\/strong> and <strong>macrovascular (i.e., medium to large blood vessels, like arteries and veins)<\/strong> changes can occur. <strong>Microvascular changes<\/strong> include <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Diabetic_retinopathy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">retinopathy<\/a><\/strong>, or damage to the retina of the eye; <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Diabetic_nephropathy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">nephropathy<\/a><\/strong>, or damage to the kidney(s); and <strong>neuropathy<\/strong>, which is damage to nerves, most commonly peripheral nerves. <strong>Macrovascular complications<\/strong> include <strong>atherosclerosis<\/strong> involving plaque buildup in arteries, such as those that supply blood to the <strong>heart<\/strong> and <strong>brain<\/strong>, leading to <strong>coronary artery disease<\/strong> and <strong>cerebrovascular disease<\/strong>, respectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Signs and symptoms of vascular changes<\/strong> depend on the blood vessel(s) affected. For example, <strong>retinopathy<\/strong> may present with <strong>loss of vision or total blindness<\/strong>. <strong>Neuropathy<\/strong> may present with <strong>decreased sensation in the fingers and toes<\/strong>. <strong>Chest pain or discomfort<\/strong> may be the first sign of <strong>coronary artery disease<\/strong> and <strong>transient ischemic attacks (i.e., \u201cmini-strokes\u201d)<\/strong>, or a <strong>stroke<\/strong> may be the first presenting sign of <strong>cerebrovascular disease<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Similarly, <strong>diagnosis<\/strong> depends on the affected vessel(s). A <strong>comprehensive dilated eye examination<\/strong> can be performed to diagnose retinopathy; <strong>neuropathy<\/strong> is typically diagnosed using <strong>physical examination<\/strong>; and <strong>coronary artery disease<\/strong> can be diagnosed by using various methods, including <strong>coronary angiography<\/strong> and <strong>cardiac stress testing<\/strong>. <strong>Cerebrovascular <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Cerebral_vascular_disease:_Pathology_review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">disease<\/a>\u00a0can be diagnosed by various imaging methods, such as <strong>computed tomography (CT)<\/strong> or <strong>magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)<\/strong>. <strong>Treatment<\/strong> of all vascular changes seen with diabetes begins with <strong>controlling diabetes<\/strong> through <strong>lifestyle modifications and medications<\/strong> to prevent progression. Further treatments depend on the <strong>severity of the condition<\/strong> and <strong>affected vessel(s)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hypoglycemia causes hunger, shaking, sweating, and can progress to confusion or coma.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hyperglycemia presents with thirst, urination, hunger, weight loss, and may lead to DKA or HHS.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Acanthosis nigricans is a skin sign often linked to insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Long-term diabetes can cause microvascular and macrovascular complications affecting eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Managing diabetes through lifestyle and medications helps prevent complications and restore health.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Explore_Other_Common_Conditions\"><\/span>Explore Other Common Conditions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2023\/10\/23\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-in-older-adults\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions in Older Adults<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-associated-with-pregnancy\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Associated with Pregnancy<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-associated-with-long-covid\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Associated with Long Covid<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-associated-with-gut-health\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Associated with Gut Health<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-bacterial-infections\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health: Bacterial Infections<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-2-viruses\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health, Part 2: Viruses<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-conditions-related-to-cortisol\">A Quick Reference Guide to Conditions Related to Cortisol<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-male-reproductive-health-disorders\">A Quick Reference Guide to Male Reproductive Health Disorders<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-female-reproductive-health-disorders\">A Quick Reference Guide to Female Reproductive Health Disorders<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_Author\"><\/span>About the Author<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/alyssa-haag\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alyssa Haag, BA, MS-4<\/a>,&nbsp;<\/strong>obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Biology and Education from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2019. She then spent a year as a Medical Assistant at a primary care office in New York City before entering medical school at Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She will be obtaining her Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) in May of 2024 and is currently in the process of applying for a Family Medicine residency. Her passion for education and accessible patient education brought her to Osmosis, where she works as a scriptwriter and editor for the Osmosis Q&amp;A project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reviewers\"><\/span>Reviewers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/kelsey-lafayette\"><strong>Kelsey LaFayette, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C,<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/a>Nursing Content Manager<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/lisa-miklush\"><strong>Lisa Miklush, PhD, RN, CNS,<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/a>Senior Content Editor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span>References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Deshpande AD, Harris-Hayes M, Schootman M. Epidemiology of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. Phys Ther. 2008;88(11):1254-1264. doi:10.2522\/ptj.20080020<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bagley, D. (2015, December 1).&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/endocrinenews.endocrine.org\/u-s-leads-developed-nations-in-diabetes-prevalence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">U.S. Leads Developed Nations in Diabetes Prevalence &#8211; Endocrine News<\/a>. Endocrine News.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Karada\u011f AS, You Y, Danarti R, Al-Khuzaei S, Chen W. Acanthosis nigricans and the metabolic syndrome. Clin Dermatol. 2018;36(1):48-53. doi:10.1016\/j.clindermatol.2017.09.008<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Acanthosis Nigricans. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/acanthosis-nigricans#:~:text=Acanthosis%20nigricans%20is%20a%20skin,be%20either%20benign%20or%20malignant\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/acanthosis-nigricans#:~:text=Acanthosis%20nigricans%20is%20a%20skin,be%20either%20benign%20or%20malignant<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Diabetes Mellitus. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Diabetes_mellitus#page-1\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Diabetes_mellitus#page-1<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Diaphoresis. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/diaphoresis\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/diaphoresis<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS): Nursing Process (ADPIE). Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Hyperosmolar_hyperglycemic_state_(HHS):_Nursing_Process_(ADPIE)\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Hyperosmolar_hyperglycemic_state_(HHS):_Nursing_Process_(ADPIE)<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Hypoglycemia. Available from:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/hypoglycemia\">https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/hypoglycemia<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Kussmaul Respirations. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/kussmaul-respirations\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/kussmaul-respirations<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Osmosis. Sequelae. Available from:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/sequelae\">&nbsp;https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/sequelae<\/a>. Accessed January 31, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ozlu E, Uzuncakmak TK, Tak\u0131r M, Akdeniz N, Karadag AS. Comparison of cutaneous manifestations in diabetic and nondiabetic obese patients: a prospective, controlled study. North Clin Istanb. 2018;5(2):114-119. Published 2018 May 21. doi:10.14744\/nci.2017.68553<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yari Z, Behrouz V, Zand H, Pourvali K. New insight into diabetes management: from glycemic index to dietary insulin index. Curr Diabetes Rev. 2020;16(4):293-300. doi:10.2174\/1573399815666190614122626<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_1ff1c7.png\" alt=\"Set yourself up for professional success with osmosis. Create an account ad\" class=\"wp-image-3160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_1ff1c7.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_1ff1c7.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Access your&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">f<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/login?type=create\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ree trial<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;to find out why millions of current and future clinicians and caregivers love learning with us.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn to identify common signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus, including hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, acanthosis nigricans, and vascular changes, to improve diagnosis and care.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":250,"featured_media":3156,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[27,5,10,867,30,16,37,32],"tags":[2041,2044,2048,2038,2042,2046,1131,2047,625,2045,2043,2039,1134,627,2040],"class_list":["post-3155","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-clerkships","category-clinical-skills","category-lpn","category-np","category-do","category-pa","category-nursing","tag-acanthosis-nigricans","tag-blood-sugar-monitoring","tag-diabetes-diagnosis","tag-diabetes-mellitus","tag-diabetes-symptoms","tag-diabetes-treatment","tag-diabetic-ketoacidosis","tag-diabetic-nephropathy","tag-diabetic-neuropathy","tag-diabetic-retinopathy","tag-hyperglycemia","tag-hypoglycemia","tag-type-1-diabetes","tag-type-2-diabetes","tag-vascular-complications"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - 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