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Diabetes type 2 symptoms: Bad breath, tooth decay or bleeding gums are a warning

Diabetics are three times more likely to develop dental problems than those who have healthy blood sugar levels. Early warning signs of type 2 diabetes can be so slight, they're easily missed, and then complications can occur.

Type 2 diabetes can lead to tooth decay - something you may not have thought was associated with high blood sugar levels. Too much sugar in the blood can result in more sugar in the saliva, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. The charity Diabetes UK explained the bacteria in the mouth then produces acid that attacks the tooth enamel and damages the gums. Blood vessels in the gums can also be targeted by the bacteria, causing infections.

The double-whammy is that gum disease and infections can then trigger even higher blood sugar levels, putting you more at risk of wider complications, such as heart disease.

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and infection of the soft tissue and bones that supports the teeth (periodontitis).

There may be issues with oral thrush, a dry mouth, tooth loss or abscesses.

Early signifiers of dental issues include redness, soreness, and bad breath.

Do pay attention if you have any of the early warning signs of type 2 diabetes.

This includes going to the toilet frequently, especially during the night, and feeling extremely thirsty.

Feelings of fatigue are common, while cuts and wounds may take longer to heal.

Losing weight without trying to is also a cause for concern, which requires medical attention.

If you're concerned you might have diabetes, but would like a definite answer, the best thing to do is to arrange a blood test via your doctor.

Do discuss your concerns, and any symptoms you might be experiencing, and the doctor can arrange for your blood sugar levels to be checked.

Your results may come back as "pre-diabetes", meaning your blood sugar leaves are higher than normal, but not high enough to be considered diabetes.

This does mean, however, that you're at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

(10/07/2024)
by Express

More Information: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1403493/diabetes-type-2-symptoms-signs-tooth-decay-high-blood-sugar-levels

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