Diabetes symptoms: While most people associate diabetes with frequent thirst or sugar cravings, the reality is that it often begins with subtle, easily missed symptoms. From unexplained fatigue to sudden vision changes, the signs may not be as obvious as you think.
Here are some less obvious, but very real, signs of diabetes that you should never ignore:
Persistent fatigue:
If you’re sleeping well but still feel exhausted all the time, it could be more than stress. Constant tiredness, even after a full night’s sleep, may signal fluctuating blood sugar levels.
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Blurry vision:
High blood sugar can alter fluid levels in your eyes, resulting in swelling and affecting your ability to see clearly. In case you have temporary changes in your vision or feel a strain in the eye, don’t just visit an eye specialist. Go and get your sugar tested.
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet:
High blood sugar levels over a long period can cause nerve damage. As a result, those with diabetes can often experience tingling, burning, or numbness, especially in hands and feet, as well as pins-and-needles sensations. Often, people also experience a burning sensation in their feet, especially at night, and sensitivity to touch.
Unexplained weight loss:
Shedding a few extra kilos in a short period without any effort can feel like a dream. However, the unusual weight loss is a symptom of a big problem at hand. Without insulin, the cells don’t get enough glucose to use for energy. Hence, the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy, leading to rapid weight loss.
Dark patches on the skin:
A dark patch of velvety skin on your neck, armpit, or groin could be a sign of pre-diabetes. This is common among those with dark skin complexion. With high levels of insulin in the body, the skin cells reproduce faster than normal and can develop into dark spots. A few people also develop round spots or bumps on their bodies.
Frequent infections:
Diabetes can impair your body’s ability to fight off infections by weakening the immune system. This makes you more vulnerable to various illnesses, often leading to frequent or recurring infections, such as urinary tract infections, skin infections, or even vaginal infections. If you are facing recurrent infections, it’s time to see a doctor.
Fruity-smelling breath:
A fruity or sweet smell on your breath can be a hidden sign of uncontrolled diabetes. This happens when your body can’t use sugar for energy and starts burning fat instead. As a result, it produces substances called ketones, which give the breath its unusual smell. This condition is known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and can be very dangerous if not treated quickly. If you notice this kind of breath along with other symptoms like extreme thirst or tiredness, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
What are the more common symptoms of diabetes?
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst and hunger pangs
- Slow-healing cuts
- Increased irritability or mood swings
- Itchy, dry skin
When to see a doctor
Diabetes can’t be cured, but it can be controlled with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. However, if it’s ignored or left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health problems over time. If you are showing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, see your doctor.
How is diabetes tested?
Diabetes is diagnosed through simple blood tests that measure the amount of sugar (glucose) in your bloodstream. The most common tests include the Fasting Blood Sugar Test, which checks your levels after not eating for 8 hours, and the HbA1c Test, which shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.
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Diabetes often begins quietly, with symptoms that are easy to dismiss or overlook. But paying attention to early warning signs, whether common or hidden, can make all the difference. Early detection and timely treatment are key to managing diabetes effectively and preventing serious complications.