Diabetes mellitus is known as a silent killer. This chronic metabolic disorder occurs when there is an excess of blood sugar levels in the blood due to the shortage of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose. In the absence of this important hormone, the blood sugar levels go haywire and start affecting the internal organs one by one. It also increases the risk of infections and heart diseases. Although diabetes doesn’t differentiate much between men and women, it does affect the latter differently. Women have more to lose from diabetes than men. Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of The Health Condition Caused By High Blood Sugar.

How Is Diabetes Different For Women?

As compared to men, some of the health complications of diabetes are more serious in women. For example, the risk of heart diseases is two times more in women with diabetes than in men. Women are also at a greater risk of diabetes-related complications such as blindness, kidney diseases and depression. World Diabetes Day 2018: Include These 5 Foods That Lower Blood Sugar In Your Diet.

Although some symptoms like excessive thirst, fatigue, weight gain or loss, frequent urination, slow healing of wounds, etc. are common for both sexes, women will also have distinct symptoms of diabetes. These are some symptoms women need to watch out for according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Yeast and UTI Infections

Women who have diabetes may experience vaginal yeast infection since their blood sugar levels are high. According to CDC, more than 50 percent of women with diabetes experience urinary tract infections (UTIs) in their lives. A combination of factors such as high sugar levels and inability to completely empty their bladders (helping bacteria thrive) make women with diabetes particularly vulnerable to UTIs. Increased incidences of UTIs and yeast infections should immediately serve as red flags for diabetes.

Longer, Heavier Periods

Women with diabetes may experience longer, heavier periods and stronger food cravings. Hormonal changes right before the menstrual cycle can make the blood sugar levels behave abnormally. If you notice this pattern during your periods, you should get your sugar levels tested.

Decreased Interest in Sex

A slump in sex life can be due to a variety of factors. But if it is due to a waning interest due to discomfort, it needs to be checked out. Diabetes can lower women’s interest in sex due to vaginal dryness, which makes the act painful. Damaged nerves, reduced blood flow and hormonal changes due to diabetes can also contribute to sexual disinterest.

Difficulty Getting Pregnant

Diabetes during pregnancy can risk things up but it’s equally difficult getting pregnant if you have diabetes. Infertility issues can crop up due to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome that is seen frequently in women with diabetes. Planning to Get Pregnant? Have These 8 Fertility-Boosting Foods to Improve Your Chances of Conceiving.

These signs and symptoms of diabetes are distinct in women. Due to the increased risks, ladies have more to manage. If these symptoms persist, check your blood sugar levels, eat a healthful diet and move around more.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 13, 2018 07:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).