Renowned Spanish journalist and television host Javier Ruiz shared a personal story that serves as a warning to many. In an interview with Enfermería 21, he recounted how, at 18, he experienced a sudden deterioration in his health: he lost 19 kilograms and suffered from extreme fatigue. The doctors he consulted attributed everything to stress from exams. However, the real cause was much more serious.
As the journalist recalls, the correct diagnosis was made by chance. During summer holidays, an intern at a medical station, upon seeing his condition, immediately suspected diabetes. Subsequent tests confirmed her suspicion. This case clearly demonstrates how easily the symptoms of a serious illness can be mistaken for signs of fatigue or emotional stress, which can lead to dangerous delays in treatment.
According to endocrinologists, unexplained and rapid weight loss is one of the classic signs of type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, this symptom is less common and usually linked to a prolonged period of high blood sugar without appropriate therapy. Other warning signs that experts advise not to ignore include persistent thirst, frequent urination, insatiable hunger, chronic fatigue, blurred vision, and recurrent infections. In severe cases, nausea, vomiting, and a distinctive smell of acetone on the breath may also appear.
Diabetes is diagnosed based on blood tests. To confirm the diagnosis, one or more criteria must be met: for example, two fasting plasma glucose measurements of 7.0 mmol/L or higher, or a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 6.5% or above. In urgent situations, a rapid test using capillary blood from a finger may be used for a quick assessment, but its results always require confirmation by laboratory analysis.
The treatment approach depends on the type of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient. For type 1 diabetes, daily insulin administration via injections or an insulin pump is essential. Therapy for type 2 diabetes usually begins with lifestyle changes: dietary adjustments, weight loss, and regular physical activity. If these measures are insufficient, oral medications or injections are prescribed, and in some cases, insulin may also be required. Ongoing monitoring of glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol is a crucial part of treatment.
Prevention plays a key role in combating type 2 diabetes, while preventing the development of type 1 diabetes is currently impossible. The foundation of prevention is healthy habits: maintaining a normal weight, following a balanced diet low in sugar and saturated fats, and engaging in regular physical activity. Avoiding smoking, consuming alcohol in moderation, and ensuring quality sleep also contribute to a healthy metabolism. People with a family history of diabetes or other risk factors are advised to periodically check their blood sugar levels to detect abnormalities early.
