Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body metabolizes glucose, the main source of fuel for your body’s cells. There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is caused when your body becomes resistant to insulin or when your pancreas stops producing enough insulin. To diagnose type 2 diabetes, doctors will look for certain symptoms in your body. In this article, we will illustrate these symptoms so that you can be aware of them and get a proper diagnosis if you experience them.

1. Increased thirst and urination

One of the most common early signs of type 2 diabetes is increased thirst and frequent urination. This happens because excess sugar builds up in your bloodstream and your kidneys have to work harder to filter and absorb it.

This process triggers more urination, which can lead to dehydration and increased thirst.

2. Increased hunger

Another symptom of type 2 diabetes is increased hunger, even after eating. When your insulin levels are low, your body is not able to use glucose for energy, which makes you feel hungry even if you have just eaten.

3. Fatigue

Feeling fatigued or exhausted without a reason could be a sign of insulin resistance. Your body is not able to use glucose efficiently, which means your body doesn’t get the energy it needs to function properly.

4. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar levels can cause damage to the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to blurred vision. This condition is known as diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness if not treated in time.

5. Slow Healing Wounds

People with type 2 diabetes may experience slow healing wounds or cuts. This happens because high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels, which slows down the healing process.

6. Numbness or Tingling Sensation in Hands and Feet

High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves and blood vessels, causing numbness or tingling sensation in your hands and feet. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy.

7. Skin Changes

People with type 2 diabetes may notice changes in their skin, such as dark patches of skin or even dry, itchy skin. These skin changes happen because of high blood sugar levels that can affect the blood vessels and cause skin conditions.

8. Increased Infections

High blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. People with type 2 diabetes are more prone to infections, such as UTIs, gum infections, and skin infections.

9. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without trying, it could be a symptom of type 2 diabetes. When your body is not able to use glucose for energy, it starts burning muscle and fat for fuel, which leads to unexplained weight loss.