Diabetes Symptoms: What to Watch For and When to Act

Early Diabetes Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Many people miss the early warning signs. However, catching these symptoms early can make a big difference in managing your diabetes. Here are some of the common early symptoms:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination: This occurs because your body is trying to rid itself of excess sugar through urine.
• Increased hunger: Even after eating, you might still feel hungry.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, no matter how much rest you get.
• Blurred vision: The high levels of glucose can affect the shape of the lens in your eyes, causing blurry vision.
• Slow-healing cuts or sores: High blood sugar can slow down the body’s natural healing process.
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet: Known as neuropathy, this happens when high blood sugar damages the nerves.
• Unexplained weight loss: Especially in Type 1 diabetes, weight loss can occur as the body is not able to use glucose properly for energy.
• If you notice any of these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, it’s time to get tested. Early detection helps prevent further complications.

Symptoms by Type: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational

Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

Type 1 diabetes can develop rapidly, sometimes over just a few days. If you notice any of the following symptoms, get tested immediately:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Rapid weight loss despite eating normally
• Fruity-smelling breath or deep, rapid breathing, indicating diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which requires emergency medical attention
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Type 2 diabetes develops more slowly and may not show obvious symptoms at first. Common signs include:

• Thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue
• Blurred vision and slow-healing sores
• Frequent infections (such as skin infections or urinary tract infections)
• Dark, velvety patches of skin (usually in the armpits or neck), which may be a sign of insulin resistance

Gestational Diabetes Symptoms

Gestational diabetes is harder to spot as symptoms are usually mild. If you have any of the following, it’s essential to get tested:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Fatigue and blurred vision
• Most women are tested for gestational diabetes during pregnancy, typically around the 24th week.

Urgent Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Care

There are times when you need immediate attention. These red flags can indicate a diabetic emergency:

• Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Confusion or extreme drowsiness
• Very high blood sugar with dehydration or fever
• These symptoms may signal diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in Type 1 or severe hyperglycemia in Type 2. In these cases, seek emergency care right away.

Do Children and Teens Show Different Diabetes Symptoms?

Yes, children and teens may show rapid-onset symptoms for Type 1 diabetes, such as increased thirst, bed-wetting, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. If you notice these symptoms in your child, it’s important to get them tested promptly.

Common Questions About Diabetes Symptoms

What are the first signs of diabetes?

The first signs of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, and blurry vision. If you notice any of these, it’s important to get tested.

Can you have diabetes without symptoms?

Yes, many people with Type 2 diabetes don’t experience obvious symptoms at first. That’s why regular testing is essential, especially if you have risk factors.

Do diabetes symptoms go away?

With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people see improvements in their symptoms. However, continuous monitoring is necessary to maintain better control over your blood sugar.

When should I get tested?

If you notice multiple symptoms or have risk factors like family history, being overweight, or high blood pressure, you should get tested. Your healthcare provider may recommend testing based on your age and risk factors.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests such as the fasting blood glucose test, A1C, or an oral glucose tolerance test. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the best test for your situation.

Simple Action Plan: What to Do If You Notice Diabetes Symptoms

Here’s a simple plan to follow if you suspect you might have diabetes:

1. Write down your symptoms and how long you’ve been experiencing them.
2. Monitor your blood sugar if you have a home testing kit or visit a pharmacy for a screening.
3. Book a virtual consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms.
4. Follow up for lab results and personalized treatment options.

How Virtual Care Helps You Act Sooner

Telehealth makes it easier to take the next step in managing your diabetes. You can have a virtual visit with a provider, get your blood sugar levels tested, and start treatment from the comfort of your home. Regular follow-ups ensure that your blood sugar stays under control.

Prevention Tips for High-Risk Individuals

Even if you’re at high risk for diabetes, you can lower your chances of developing the disease by making these lifestyle changes:

• Eat balanced meals rich in fiber and low in processed sugar.
• Stay active by getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.
• Aim for a healthy weight and manage stress.
• Get regular check-ups and keep track of your blood sugar levels.

When Symptoms Improve—What’s Next?

It’s great news if your symptoms improve! However, continue regular monitoring and stay consistent with healthy lifestyle habits. This will help you keep your blood sugar in check and reduce the risk of complications.

Disclaimer

This article is meant to inform and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes, please contact your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention if necessary.