Diabetes UK is raising awareness of diabetes and the signs to look out for – the 4Ts.
Diabetes is a condition where blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high, mainly due to the body not producing enough insulin or the insulin not working properly.
Common types include Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes which develops during pregnancy.
In Type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce any insulin at all and if left undiagnosed, it can get really serious, really quickly. Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in childhood, but you can get it at any age. It cannot be prevented.
Knowing the signs can avoid a medical emergency and save lives.
The 4Ts campaign is all about helping you spot the four most common signs of type 1 diabetes in both adults and children, and they’re really easy to remember
- Toilet – Going for a wee more often.
- Thirsty – Non-stop thirst and drinking more than usual.
- Tired – Feeling more tired and having less energy than usual.
- Thinner – Unexplained weight loss.
It’s important to remember that these signs can also be symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. If you’ve any concerns, make an appointment with your GP practice.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and can sometimes be prevented with simple changes such as eating more healthily, losing weight and keeping active.
You can contact the Healthy Knowsley Service on 0800 0731 202 or visit www.healthyknowsley.co.uk/ for friendly advice and support.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Cabinet Member for Health, said:
“The 4Ts campaign makes it easy to know what signs to look out for with diabetes as well as knowing when to seek medical help. Please help to raise awareness of this important campaign by sharing the 4Ts with your family and friends.”
You can find out more about the 4Ts at www.diabetes.org.uk/the4Ts