Diabetes is a common condition that affects almost four million people in the UK, and 90 per cent of all cases are caused by type 2 diabetes. The condition is caused by the pancreas not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to insulin. Without enough of the hormone, the body struggles to convert sugar in the blood into useable energy. You could be at risk of diabetes symptoms if your tongue is often stinging, or feels like it’s burning, it’s been claimed.
A burning mouth or tongue could be a warning sign of diabetes, revealed medical website the Cleveland Clinic.
It could be caused by thrush - a fungal infection of the mouth and tongue, it said.
High blood sugar levels in the mouth and saliva provides the perfect environment for fungus to grow.
“People with diabetes face a higher than normal risk of oral health problems,” said the Cleveland Clinic.
“If blood sugar is poorly controlled, it is more likely that oral health problems will arise.
“This is because uncontrolled diabetes weakens white blood cells, which are the body’s main defence against bacterial infections that can occur in the mouth.
“People with diabetes face a higher risk of burning mouth and/or tongue. This condition is caused by the presence of thrush.
“People with diabetes who frequently take antibiotics to fight various infections are especially prone to developing a fungal infection of the mouth and tongue.”
You could also be at risk of diabetes symptoms if you often develop gum inflammation.
The condition, which is also known as gingivitis, causes blood vessels in the mouth to thicken up.
This reduces the flow of nutrients to the mouth, which reduces the body’s ability to fight infections.
Many people may have diabetes without even knowing, as the symptoms don’t necessarily make you feel unwell.
Common diabetes symptoms include fatigue, blurred vision, and passing more urine than normal.
Diagnosing diabetes early is crucial, as the condition raises the risk of some deadly complications, including heart attacks and strokes.
You could lower your risk of diabetes by eating a healthy, balanced diet, and by doing regular exercise.
Speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the signs or symptoms of diabetes.
EmoticonEmoticon