Which symptom set is described by the ‘3 P’s’ in diabetes?

• A. Polyuria, Polydipsia, Polyphagia
• B. Pain, Palpitations, Paresthesias
• C. Pressure, Palpitation, Pulse
• D. Photophobia, Paresthesias, Pruritus

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the classic triad seen with hyperglycemia in diabetes: the “3 P’s.” When blood glucose is high, glucose spills into the urine (glucosuria), pulling water with it and causing kidneys to produce more urine, which leads to frequent urination. This fluid loss triggers dehydration and a compensatory increase in thirst, hence drinking more water. At the same time, because glucose isn’t effectively entering cells (due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance), body cells feel starved and signal increased appetite, producing more eating. Together, these three symptoms—excessive urination, excessive thirst, and increased hunger—define the 3 P’s. The other symptom sets don’t reflect this metabolic picture: they describe pain-related or cardiovascular or sensory symptoms that aren’t the characteristic trio of diabetes.