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Symptoms of diabetes

Question

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Answer Video and written answer:
Qualified optometrist Nigel Best BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBCLA FAAO answers this question:

There are a number of general symptoms that a diabetic may have, among them:

- Sudden vision changes
- Very dry skin
- Feeling tired all the time
- Extreme hunger
- Excessive thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tingling or numb feet or fingers
- Sores that are slow to heal
- Frequent urination
- More infections than usual.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you do not necessarily have diabetes, but it is worth consulting your doctor.

For more information about diabetes, see our video below:

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Optician's Biography

Nigel Best BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBCLA FAAO has worked as an optometrist at Specsavers for 18 years. He is currently the Director of Specsavers Optometrists in Darlington and Richmond (N.Yorks), a College of Optometrists supervisor and a member of the Optometry in Practice editorial board. He has written papers published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and regional training events. He has written a number of contributions to optical and medical publications for the public, including sections on eyes and eye diseases for a Reader’s Digest guide.
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