Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

While most everyone knows about the most common symptoms, such as frequent urination and hunger, there are several other lesser-known symptoms that can also be indicative of diabetes. These symptoms can be easy to overlook, but they are still important to recognize and understand in order to catch diabetes as early as possible. Here are ten lesser-known symptoms of diabetes:.

1. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision can be a symptom of diabetes, brought on by high blood sugar levels affecting the lenses in your eyes. When your blood sugar levels are too high, the fluid in your eye can shift and cause your vision to become blurry or distorted.

2. Slow Wound Healing

If you have diabetes, you may notice that cuts, bruises, and other wounds take longer to heal than they ordinarily would.

This is because high blood sugar levels can compromise your immune system, which slows down your body’s ability to repair itself.

3. Gum Disease

Diabetes can make you more susceptible to gum disease, as it can reduce the flow of saliva in your mouth and make it easier for bacteria to grow.

If you notice bleeding, sensitive, or sore gums, you may want to speak with your doctor about the possibility of diabetes.

4. Itchy Skin

If you find yourself itching more than usual, especially in or around your genitals, it could be a symptom of diabetes.

High blood sugar levels can damage your nerve endings and cause a condition called diabetic neuropathy, which can result in itchy, irritated skin.

5. Fatigue

Feeling tired all the time can be a sign of diabetes, even if you’ve slept well and don’t have any other health issues. When your body can’t properly manage insulin levels, it can leave you feeling depleted and lethargic.

6. Numbness

Numbness and tingling in your extremities, such as your fingers and toes, can be a sign of diabetes. When your blood sugar levels are too high, it can damage your nervous system and cause these sensations.

7. Dry Mouth

Having a dry mouth all the time can be a symptom of diabetes since high blood sugar levels can reduce the production of saliva.

This can lead to an uncomfortable parched sensation in your mouth, as well as bad breath and an increased risk of tooth decay.

8. Skin Discoloration

If you notice dark patches of skin on your neck, armpits, or between your fingers or toes, it could be a sign of diabetes. This condition is called acanthosis nigricans, and it is caused by high insulin levels in your body.

9. Frequent Infections

If you find that you’re getting sick more often than usual, or that infections such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, or skin infections are taking longer to clear up, it could be a sign of diabetes.

High blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections.

10. Mood Changes

Diabetes can also affect your mental health. If you find yourself feeling irritable, easily frustrated, or having difficulty concentrating, it could be a sign of diabetes. Blood sugar fluctuations can affect your mood and make you feel less stable.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing any of these ten lesser-known symptoms of diabetes, it’s essential to speak with your doctor right away. Early diagnosis is critical to managing diabetes and preventing potential complications.