Excessive thirst

If you have developed an excessive thirst coupled with passing large quantities of water and a craving for sweet foods, then you may be one of the “missing million” – people who have diabetes mellitus (usually just called diabetes) but don’t know it.

Other signs often associated with this symptom include hunger, weight loss and tiredness.

These symptoms must never be ignored because the condition can rapidly worsen and become life threatening and early treatment can make a real difference.

Diabetes tends to run in families. There are two types, known as Type I and Type II. Type I commonly starts between the ages of 10 and 16, develops rapidly and is the most severe form of the disease.

Type II diabetes usually affects the over-40s, especially those who are overweight, and can take years to be detected.

For more information, read my Spotlight on Diabetes.

This article was published on Wed 23 September 2009