Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition which can be lifelong and get worse over time for many. The condition is characterised by the body being unable to metabolise glucose. This leads to high levels of blood glucose which over time may damage the organs of the body. Luckily, if diagnosed early and making some lifestyle changes, a person is able to not need long-term medication. Spotting the early signs and speaking with your GP is essential. One of the early symptoms of type 2 diabetes is a frequent need to urinate and also having a distinct odour in your urine.
When a person develops type 2 diabetes, they may have blood glucose levels which are dangerously high.
The bodies defence is to try and get rid of this extra glucose in the urine and this can cause a smell emanating from the urine which is sweet.
A person’s urine can hold many clues to their health and smelling a fruity and sweet smell is a warning sign and you should speak with your GP about the possible reasons why.
Along with sweet-smelling urine, a person may have other symptoms such as:
- Sweet-smelling breath
- Feelings of exhaustion
- Confusion
- Increased thirst
Dehydration is when the body loses a substantial amount of fluids and salts. A person with type 2 diabetes has an increased risk of dehydration due to the high blood glucose levels.
When dehydration occurs in the body, it makes the urine more concentrated. This in turn makes a person’s urine appear very yellow, or even brown with stronger smells. If a person’s urine is very dark, they should drink more water especially with temperatures rising.
If the symptoms do not get better in a few hours, an individual should go and see their GP.
Tips to staying hydrated:
- Invest in a reusable water bottle
- Infuse water with flavours
- Drink before you eat
- Try to make a water schedule
- Eat certain foods to keep you hydrated including cucumbers, celery, tomatoes, watermelon, spinach, strawberries and grapefruit.
Coconut water has gained popularity of late and is a mineral-rich liquid with high levels of potassium, magnesium, sodium and calcium. Coconut water will replenish lost fluids and electrolytes which is perfect for type 2 diabetics.
The NHS advises to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water or squash and drink more in the hot weather and when exercising.
A person should not drink a lot of coffee or alcohol. To not eat garlic or asparagus as they contain strong smelling chemicals that can pass into the pee and to stay away from taking more than 10mg of vitamin B6 a day.
Sweet-smelling urine is often due to a person’s diet or type 2 diabetes condition. It can be a signal from the body of something dangerous and possibly even life-threatening.
Your GP will be able to determine the cause of the sweet-smell of your urine and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Source: Read Full Article