The NHS has also warned people that they may need to dial 111 or 999 in some circumstances
The NHS has warned anyone feeling unusually “tired” to see their GP. However, in some cases, you may need to dial 111 or 999, as a “fatal” situation can develop quickly.
On social media, the health service highlighted the signs of type 1 diabetes, which can appear at any age. It urged people to remember the four T’s.
Listing “Toilet, Thirsty, Tired and Thinner” as four common signs to look out for, it said that if any of these symptoms come on suddenly, or they are unusual for you, it is time to seek help.
In its post, it took to X, it warned: “Do you know the signs of type 1 diabetes? They can happen at any age, and if left undiagnosed, it can be fatal.”
Type 1 diabetes – explained
Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily and manage their blood glucose through regular monitoring, diet, and insulin adjustments. There is no cure, but it can be managed effectively.
Remember the 4 T’s
It advised people to remember four words – each starting with the letter T. These are:
- Toilet – “going for a wee more often, especially at night”
- Thirsty – “being constantly thirsty and drinking more than usual”
- Tired – “being very tired and having less energy.”
- Thinner – “losing weight without trying to or looking thinner than usual”
Dial 111
After sharing these common signs, the NHS warned: “Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 if you think you or your child has type 1 diabetes.”
According to the NHS website, other signs of type 1 diabetes include:
- blurred vision
- breath that smells sweet or fruity (like nail polish remover or pear drop sweets)
- cuts and wounds are taking longer to heal
- getting frequent infections or infections that do not get better, such as thrush or nappy rash
The NHS warns: “The symptoms develop quickly, over a few days or weeks.”
It may be time to call 999
The NHS warns you should call 999 if you or your child has been peeing more, feeling very thirsty and tired, and:
- your symptoms are getting worse quickly
- you have stomach pain, diarrhoea, or you’re feeling or being sick
- you’re feeling sleepy or confused
- you’re breathing faster and more deeply than usual
“These could be signs of diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly”, it cautions.
Diabetes UK has a free helpline that’s open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. You can call 0345 123 2399 or email helpline@diabetes.org.uk for support and advice.