Which of the following symptoms could indicate diabetes?

Study for the VirtualSC Health Exam. Ace it with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Get ready with detailed explanations!

The symptoms of excessive thirst, frequent urination, and sudden changes in vision are classic indicators of diabetes, particularly when it comes to diabetes mellitus. In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin produced, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood.

Excessive thirst (polydipsia) occurs because high blood sugar causes the kidneys to excrete more glucose through urine, which pulls water with it. This leads to dehydration, prompting an increased thirst response. Frequent urination (polyuria) is a direct result of this process as the kidneys work to eliminate excess glucose and, consequently, excess water. Sudden changes in vision can occur due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels causing the lenses in the eyes to swell, affecting their ability to focus.

The other symptoms listed are not typical of diabetes. Headaches and fatigue can stem from various causes but are more general symptoms that may not specifically indicate diabetes. Joint pain and swelling are more suggestive of inflammatory conditions. Skin rashes and irritations are not commonly associated with diabetes unless there is an underlying issue, such as a skin infection due to poor blood circulation or neuropathy, which can sometimes occur in diabetes but are not primary symptoms.

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