This article was medically reviewed by Amanda Ciprich, MS, RD. Last updated on 3/5/24.
While both men and women can develop diabetes with similar symptoms, there are some symptoms that are unique to men. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. Technology advancements like the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system have revolutionized diabetes care that offers accurate and real-time glucose readings. Let's explore the signs of diabetes in men and understand how the Dexcom G7 can play a pivotal role in their health journey.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes in Men
The signs and symptoms of diabetes can vary from person to person, but there are some common indicators that men should be aware of. These include:
1. Increased thirst and urination
One of the most common signs of diabetes is excessive thirst and frequent urination. This occurs when the body tries to flush out excess sugar in the blood by producing more urine.
2. Unexplained weight loss
People with diabetes may experience sudden weight loss despite eating more than usual. The body cannot use glucose for energy and starts to break down fat and muscle tissue.
3. Fatigue
Feeling tired and lethargic is one of the common symptoms of diabetes. This occurs when the body can't convert glucose into energy and instead uses fat and muscle tissue for fuel.
4. Blurred vision
High blood sugar levels can cause the eye's lens to swell, leading to blurred vision and difficulty focusing.
5. Increased Hunger
Feeling hungrier than usual, even if you've eaten recently.
6. Slow healing cuts or wounds
Cuts, wounds or bruises taking longer to heal than usual.
Advanced Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes in Men
When diabetes goes undiagnosed in men, blood sugar levels remain persistently elevated which can lead to the progression of advanced signs and symptoms of diabetes. The late indications of diabetes in men may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Cardiovascular issue
- Erectile dysfunction
- Overactive bladder
- Loss of muscle mass
The importance of early detection and management
Early detection of diabetes in men is critical as it allows for timely intervention, facilitating effective management strategies and necessary lifestyle adjustments. Prompt identification helps prevent severe complications associated with diabetes, such as cardiovascular issues, nerve damage, and erectile dysfunction. Early treatment not only improves quality of life but also reduces healthcare costs by averting advanced complications, underscoring the crucial role of timely diagnosis in enhancing overall health outcomes for men with diabetes.
Fortunately, advances in diabetes technology have been shown to improve blood sugar management and reduce the risk of acute and chronic long-term complications.
Features and benefits of Dexcom G7
Dexcom G7 is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) that offers a range of features and benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with diabetes. Dexcom G7 includes features such as:
- Accurate and real-time glucose readings: Dexcom G7 provides accurate and real-time glucose readings every five minutes, allowing users to stay on top of their blood sugar levels and make informed decisions about their health.
- Personalized alerts: Dexcom G7 users can customize alerts to sound when blood sugar levels fall outside their target range. This can help users avoid dangerous highs and lows and take corrective action as needed.
- Discreet: Dexcom G7 is small, lightweight, and comfortable to wear. It can be worn discreetly under clothing, making it ideal for people who prefer not to draw attention to their condition.
- No fingersticks: Dexcom G7 is FDA approved for users to make treatment decisions using the glucose reading from the sensor. Fingersticks are only required if symptoms do not match the readings.
- Extended wear-time: Previous Dexcom generations had a wear time of 7 days, the Dexcom G7 can be worn for up to 10.5 days which reduces the need for frequent sensor changes and minimizes disruption to daily life.
How Dexcom G7 can make a difference in monitoring blood glucose levels
Dexcom G7 can make a significant difference in monitoring glucose levels for men with diabetes by providing accurate and real-time glucose readings so users can take proactive steps to keep their glucose levels in range. Users can analyze glucose trends and patterns to better understand how food, exercise and medication impact blood sugar levels and make timely adjustments to their diabetes management.
How to get started with Dexcom G7
Getting started with Dexcom G7 is easy. Here are the steps:
- Prescription: Discuss the Dexcom G7 with your healthcare provider to see if it is a good fit for you. If they determine that it is suitable for your diabetes management, they will be able to write a prescription for you.
- Fill the Prescription: Check with your insurance first to see if they have a preferred supplier for continuous glucose monitors. Once you know where to send the prescription, you can fill the prescription at the specified pharmacy or through the medical supplier.
- Sensor setup and placement: When you obtain your Dexcom G7 sensor, you can follow the instructions provided to insert the sensor.
- Add a Dexcom G7 Patch: Make sure that your Dexcom G7 sensor stays on for the full 10 days with a Skin Grip Dexcom G7 patch.
Empowering men with diabetes through Dexcom G7
Empowering men with diabetes involves providing them with the necessary knowledge to be able to identify the early signs of diabetes and diabetes technology resources, like Dexcom G7, to effectively manage their blood sugars and enhance their quality of life.
About Amanda Ciprich, MS, RD
Amanda Ciprich, a registered dietitian with a specialization in type 1 diabetes, was diagnosed with T1D herself at the age of 18. With her expertise and personal experience, she has authored two books, including "The Caregiver's Guide to Diabetes: Practical Advice for Caring for Your Loved One." As the founder of T1D Nutritionist, a virtual insurance-based private practice, Amanda provides counseling and guidance to individuals with T1D and their families, supporting them in effectively managing diabetes.
