Diabetes: The signs in your mouth that tell your blood sugar may be too high
Key Highlights
- Saliva production in your mouth is impacted by blood sugar levels
- One of the many side effects of diabetes on your health is a slow immune system
- Thrush and dry mouth could be responsible for a condition known as burning tongue syndrome
The first step of diagnosis for any condition is watching out for key symptoms. Be it the common cold or flu, heart disease or diabetes – some basic symptoms standout for every condition. Diabetes, a condition that affects millions across the globe and results in countless health complications, is also backed by a number of symptoms like:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurry vision
- Hunger pangs
- Unexplained weight loss
However, have you ever heard that your gums or even the tongue could also hint at diabetes risk?
Strange as it sounds, there are some signs in your mouth that could hint at diabetes. Take a look.
- Dry mouth: Saliva production in your mouth is impacted by blood sugar levels. If they go uncontrollably high, saliva production can go low and you may feel excess dryness in your mouth. Over time, the same can result in sores, ulcers and even cavities.
- Slow healing of cuts and infections: One of the many side effects of diabetes on your health is a slow immune system. High blood sugar levels impact the healing process and slow down recovery from external cuts and wounds. The same applies for oral health; in sores, ulcers and infections are taking too long to health, it could be a symptom of diabetes.
- Thrush: People with diabetes who frequent anti-fungal medication are more likely to develop an infection in their mouth or on their tongue. This virus thrives on high blood sugar in the saliva of people with uncontrolled diabetes.
- Burning tongue or mouth: Thrush and dry mouth could be responsible for a condition known as burning tongue syndrome. Patients can feel their tongue go numb or may experience tingling in the mouth. One may also lose the ability to taste as a result of ageing.