Diabetes is a common condition that affects more than four million people in the UK, and 90 percent of all cases are caused by type 2 diabetes. You could be at risk of high blood sugar if you develop an itch that won’t go away, it’s been claimed.

Type 2 diabetes could be caused by the body not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to insulin.

Without enough of the hormone, the body struggles to convert sugar in the blood into usable energy.

It’s crucial that if you think you may have diabetes, to speak to a doctor as soon as possible.

One of the lesser known warning signs of diabetes is having a persistent itch.

Some diabetes patients may find that their hands or feet become increasingly itchy, according to The Joint Chiropractic.

It may feel as if your extremities are particularly dry, which leads to scratching.

The itchiness may be caused by reduced blood circulation to the hands and feet as a direct result of high blood sugar.

If you find that you’re constantly itching your skin without any obvious reason, you should consider speaking to a doctor, it said.

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“You may not experience the more common symptoms of type 2 diabetes like numb feet or hands, endless trips to the bathroom, or insatiable thirst,” it said.

“However, that might not mean you’re out of the woods. There are some lesser-known signs that may indicate blood sugar problems.

“A reoccurring, overwhelming itchiness in your hands, feet, and lower legs is another lesser-known symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar levels decrease the blood circulation to your extremities which causes them to feel itchy and dry.

“Of course, there are other reasons for itchy and dry skin. If you are using a moisturising lotion on a regular basis, and the itchiness doesn’t get better, have your blood sugar levels checked.”

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Your itchy skin could also be caused by eczema, psoriasis, hives or insect bites.

On rare occasions, it may also be a sign of liver diseases, thyroid problems, or even multiple sclerosis.

You could also be at risk of diabetes if part of your skin appears to have turned into a brown, painful patch, it’s been claimed.

The immediate skin surrounding the patch may appear shinier than normal, and the skin itself may be extremely itchy or painful.

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Many people may have diabetes without even knowing it, because the signs and symptoms don’t necessarily make you feel unwell.

Common diabetes symptoms include having cuts or wounds that take longer to heal, having an unquenchable thirst, and passing more urine than normal.

You should speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the warning signs or symptoms of diabetes, or if you think you may be at risk.

Diagnosing the condition early is very important, because patients are more at risk of some deadly complications, including heart disease and strokes.

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