Symptoms of type 2 diabetes in men

High blood glucose can draw water from the body, causing thirst and more urine. It can also affect energy, eyesight, skin healing and the nerves that sense the feet. Repeated thrush or itching around the penis may occur when glucose in urine encourages yeast growth. These symptoms are not specific to diabetes, and diabetes can be present without obvious warning signs. A blood glucose test is needed to clarify the cause.

Arrange a primary-care appointment for testing if symptoms persist, recur, or occur together. Note changes in thirst, urination, weight, vision, skin healing and sexual or genital health. Bring a list of medicines and mention family history or previous prediabetes. Until assessed, drink water when thirsty and do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice. If diabetes is confirmed, monitoring and a tailored plan can protect the kidneys, nerves and circulation.

Seek urgent medical help for vomiting, severe abdominal pain, deep or rapid breathing, confusion, marked drowsiness, or inability to keep fluids down. A new foot wound with spreading redness, warmth or swelling needs prompt assessment; diabetes can make infection and healing problems harder to detect. Sudden weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking or sudden vision loss is an emergency because it may indicate a stroke.

Ask which blood tests are appropriate, whether your symptoms could have another cause, how to care for your feet, and which changes should prompt urgent help. If you already take diabetes treatment, ask how illness, reduced eating or exercise should affect your plan.