How to Detect Early Signs of Diabetes

Learn about the different types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes. Type 1 is often diagnosed in childhood, while Type 2 is more common in adults and is often related to lifestyle factors.

Familiarize yourself with the common early symptoms of diabetes, including increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision. These symptoms arise due to fluctuating blood sugar levels.

Pay attention to changes in appetite. Diabetics often experience increased hunger despite eating regular meals due to the body's inability to use glucose for energy properly.

Observe any unintentional weight loss, especially if accompanied by increased hunger. This occurs when the body starts breaking down muscle and fat for energy due to insufficient glucose.

Look for dark patches of skin, often in the folds of the body, known as acanthosis nigricans. This is an indication of insulin resistance.

Take note of frequent infections, such as gum infections, skin infections, or urinary tract infections, as a sign of diabetes due to the body's impaired ability to fight off bacteria.

Monitor your vision for blurriness or sudden changes, which can occur when blood sugar levels fluctuate. This happens because high sugar levels can cause swelling of the eye lens.

Be aware of tingling or numbing sensations in your hands and feet, as these can be symptoms of nerve damage from prolonged high blood sugar levels.

If you notice several of the symptoms above, consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform blood tests to check glucose levels and further evaluate your risk for diabetes.

Incorporate healthy lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, to reduce your risk of developing diabetes and manage symptoms.