Diabetes? What are the symptoms of type 2? + alcoholism?

In a nutshell, I suspect that I may have type 2 diabetes. I know that the symptoms include frequent urination, thirst, and often tiredness; but I have also been lightheaded lately- to the point of almost passing out. I am an alcoholic, which is bad all around; I know this. BUT, I generally have very good eating habits. I eat square meals every time I eat, to be sure that I get the recommended amount of fruits and veggies, and whole grains, etc. I have also heard that excercise helps control type 2 diabetes, and I excercise 2-4 times a week- pretty intensely. I guess what my question would be is: I'm not sure if the symptoms I'm experiencing are due to the drinking, or to diabetes. Is there a way to distinguish between the two, aside from getting a blood glucose test? I don't really have the money to see a doc right now, and I basically do every thing else right except for drinking, so I am trying to figure out a way to distinguish between the two.

parkermb is right...you sound like you want to avoid MD.
You need fasting blood tests...get a comprehensive blood test...ask for liver function panel & kidney function.

Diabetics are also sometimes depressed in mood.

As for your alcoholism problem it sounds like you know it, but want to minimize it as a problem so you don't need to stop... drinking will make diabetes & kidneys worse.

The only way to distinguish between the 2 without going to the MD is to stop drinking & see if symptoms go away.
However I get the feeling that's not an option for you.

If I may: call Intergroup or AA in your area & go to a group...if you don't like 1 group try another. Another option is to get into therapy with a professional social worker or psychologist to talk about what keeps you drinkng.

I really wish you the best.

okay, so you know that diet is key,...do you know that booze breaks down into sugar? and diabetics cannot process sugar well,....

you need to see a doc, get a fasting blood test for type 2 diabetes, & since you already recognize a drinking problem, maybe you should quit drinking.