Unusual sign around your genitals could signal undiagnosed diabetes

17 January 2024 , 15:22

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Diabetes affects more than four million people in the UK - but it can be hard to recognise (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Diabetes affects more than four million people in the UK, and while some signs are relatively easy to spot, there is a more unusual symptom that may go unnoticed or mistaken for something else.

Diabetes is a condition that causes a person's blood sugar levels to spike. There are two types of diabetes, type one and type two, and according to the NHS, type two is much more common as 90 per cent of adults with diabetes in the UK have type two. However, type two can take a while to diagnose and to be noticed as early symptoms can be vague or no symptoms at all.

Type one is where the body attacks the immune system and "destroys the cells that produce insulin" whereas type two is where the body doesn't produce enough insulin, or the cells "do not react to insulin properly". There is one symptom that can appear on your genitals that can be a telltale sign. The NHS stated a symptom of diabetes could be: "Itching around the penis or vagina, or frequent episodes of thrush."

Other symptoms of diabetes include:

• feeling very thirsty
• peeing more frequently than usual, particularly at night
• feeling very tired
• weight loss and loss of muscle bulk
• blurred vision

If you notice these symptoms, it's advised to visit your GP as they could be an indication of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes can "develop quickly over weeks or even days", as well as weight loss. Whereas weight loss is less common for type 2 diabetes.

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Type one diabetes is a lifelong condition, and there are unfortunately no changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing it. However, there are things you can do to help lower the risk of having type 2. These include healthy eating, exercise, and staying at a healthy weight.

According to the NHS, people who are more susceptible to type 2 are those who are overweight. Other factors include those who have a family history of type 2, are of Asian, Black African or African Caribbean origin, those on certain medications such as steroids for a long period of time, have high blood pressure or who those have an unhealthy diet.

If you have any concerns about diabetes it's advised to chat with your GP, and more information about diabetes can be found .

Niamh Kirk