Common nighttime habit could be 'red flag' sign of diabetes

An expert has flagged the common signs of diabetes, including a common nighttime habit. As World Diabetes Day was marked on November 14, the expert said there were 5.6 million people currently living with the disease in the UK.

Unfortunately, people who have diabetes are 15 times more likely than those without the condition to undergo amputations, with diabetic foot complications such as ulcers, circulation problems, neuropathy and Charcot foot key predispositions to amputation.

In light of World Diabetes Day, Trevor Ward, partner and senior solicitor at Patient Claim Line has explained the signs and symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, what to do if your diagnosis or treatment has been below the standard duty of care, and how sufferers can reduce their risk of amputation.

READ MORE: NHS issues urgent 'call 999' warning if you have one of these three symptoms

READ MORE: The 'first' symptom of dementia people experience may not be memory loss

What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?

Mr Ward said: “According to the NHS, symptoms of type 1 diabetes can include: increased thirst, peeing more often, feeling very tired, losing weight without trying, recurrent thrush, blurred vision, cuts taking longer to heal and/or fruity-smelling breath. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to get checked by your GP as soon as possible.”

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Mr Ward said: “There are similar red flag symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes, as outlined by the NHS. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include: increased amounts of peeing at night, feeling tired, increased thirst, losing weight without trying to, recurrent thrush, itching around the penis or vagina, cuts/wounds taking longer to heal and/or blurred vision.”

What should a doctor or medical professional do upon recognising the symptoms of diabetes?

Mr Ward said: “Upon recognising symptoms of type 1 or type 2 diabetes, a doctor should conduct a urine test and a blood test to check your blood sugar level. If it is suspected that you have diabetes, a doctor may also advise you to get assessed in a hospital and you may need to stay until your blood test results have come back.”

What are the main treatments for diabetes?

Mr Ward said: “The main treatments available to help manage and treat diabetes according to NHS guidance include: prescription medicines to keep blood sugar levels normal, regularly monitoring your blood sugar, changes to diet and exercise, and regular check-ups.

“The most common medication for type 2 diabetes is metformin which comes in tablet form; however, there are many other options. If the medicines do not work well for you, you may need to take insulin which you can inject using an insulin pen.”

What happens if diabetes isn’t treated quickly?

Mr Ward said: “In our clients’ experiences, delayed medical treatment has led to life-changing complications that could have been avoided with the correct levels of care. Poor treatment of diabetes can lead to amputation, loss of sight, increased risk of a heart attack or stroke and kidney failure. Receiving a prompt and accurate diabetes diagnosis, alongside the correct treatment, can make the difference between remaining healthy or developing serious and potentially life-threatening side effects.”

How can I reduce my risk of needing lower limb amputation?

Mr Ward said: “Foot ulcers affect as many as one in 10 diabetes sufferers and can develop into serious lower body infections which, at an advanced stage, would require the need for amputation. High blood glucose levels, over a long period of time, can cause nerve damage, leading to a loss of sensation and numbness in your feet or legs. It’s important to have regular foot examinations and reduce damage to your feet by avoiding walking barefoot, wearing footwear which fits correctly and keeping your feet in a clean and good condition.

“During your foot examination, which should take place at least once a year, your feet should be checked for signs of neuropathy, blood circulation and any signs of damage. Ultimately, managing your diabetes with appropriate treatment, healthy diet and regular exercise will help to reduce the chances of suffering from a foot complication.”

What are my legal rights if I’ve experienced a delayed diabetes diagnosis?

Mr Ward said: “If you have experienced a delayed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, or any form of medical negligence in relation to the treatment of your diabetes, you could be entitled to compensation. During the claims process, evidence must be provided to prove that negligence occurred and directly led to the worsening of the condition or caused injury.

“There is a three-year time limit from the date in which you became aware that your condition worsened following poor medical care. We recommend putting forward your claim as early as possible within this time frame for the best chance of receiving the compensation that you deserve.”