Is Weight Loss a Key Indicator of Diabetes Symptoms?

Symptoms of diabetes?

Hello doctor, is weight loss an important indicator of diabetes? My friend noticed that I have increased thirst, excessive eating, and frequent urination (especially noticeable).
One day, I recorded that I go to the bathroom every class (about once an hour), especially during morning classes.
However, I have a habit of drinking water in the morning (over 500cc).
Sometimes I feel like drinking water, and I end up drinking about 500cc, then after about 20 minutes, I have a strong urge to urinate.
After urination, I feel the need again in about 20 to 30 minutes, and the volume is significant.
My skin tends to develop eczema easily in the summer, and I have a white bump on my left wrist that appears every summer and itches a lot.
Could these symptoms indicate diabetes? I was born in 1987, my height is about 152 cm, my weight is around 62 kg, and my waist circumference is about 80 cm.
If I need to go to the hospital for a check-up, how much would it approximately cost? Thank you.

HUNG, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/12

Dr. Shi Guangzhong reply Internal Medicine

There are many reasons for abnormal weight loss.
In addition to diabetes, conditions such as hyperthyroidism and malignant tumors should also be considered.
You are 18 years old, and your body mass index (BMI) is 26.8 kg/m², which classifies you as overweight but not yet obese (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²).
However, you are approaching the obesity threshold, and if you have a family history of diabetes, your risk of developing diabetes in the future significantly increases.

Currently, you have two issues: (1) Urinary problems: Your issue may not necessarily be diabetes; bladder inflammation, urinary tract infections, and abnormal bladder contraction should also be considered.
(2) Skin problems: The skin issues may not be related to diabetes either.
It is recommended that you visit a hospital for a urinalysis and seek assistance from a dermatologist.
Regarding costs, you may need to pay a registration fee and a portion of the expenses as determined by the National Health Insurance, which varies depending on the level of the medical institution.

Reply Date: 2006/11/12

More Info

Weight loss can indeed be a significant indicator of diabetes, particularly in the context of Type 1 diabetes, where the body is unable to produce insulin. This leads to the body breaking down fat and muscle for energy, resulting in weight loss. In Type 2 diabetes, weight loss can also occur, but it is often associated with other symptoms such as increased thirst (polydipsia), frequent urination (polyuria), and increased hunger (polyphagia).
In your case, the symptoms you describe—frequent urination, increased thirst, and weight loss—are classic signs of diabetes. When blood sugar levels are elevated, the kidneys attempt to excrete the excess glucose through urine, which can lead to dehydration and increased thirst. This cycle can result in significant weight loss, as the body loses not only water but also calories through the excretion of glucose.

The presence of skin issues, such as eczema or dermatitis, can also be associated with diabetes, particularly if there is a history of high blood sugar levels. Skin conditions can arise due to poor circulation or infections that are more common in individuals with diabetes.

Given your age, height, and weight, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is approximately 26.5, which classifies you as overweight. Being overweight is a risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes, especially if there is a family history of the disease. The symptoms you are experiencing, combined with your BMI, warrant further investigation.

To determine whether you have diabetes, it is advisable to undergo blood tests. The American Diabetes Association recommends the following tests for diagnosing diabetes:
1. Fasting Plasma Glucose Test: A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher two hours after consuming a sugary drink indicates diabetes.

3. A1C Test: An A1C level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. They can perform the necessary tests and provide guidance based on your results.

As for the cost of visiting a hospital or clinic, it can vary widely depending on your location, the healthcare facility, and whether you have insurance. Typically, an initial consultation may range from $100 to $300, and laboratory tests may incur additional costs. If you have health insurance, it’s advisable to check your coverage for diagnostic tests and consultations.

In summary, weight loss can be a key indicator of diabetes, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as increased thirst and frequent urination. Given your symptoms and family history, it is essential to seek medical advice and undergo appropriate testing to rule out diabetes or other underlying conditions. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve outcomes and help prevent complications associated with diabetes.

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