Diabetes is a chronic disease that results from the body’s inability to regulate the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. The disease affects millions of people worldwide and can cause serious health complications if left untreated.

However, many of the symptoms of diabetes can be easily ignored or mistaken for other conditions. Below are ten symptoms of diabetes that should not be ignored:.

1. Excessive thirst and hunger

One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is excessive thirst and hunger. This is because when blood sugar levels are high, the body tries to flush out the excess sugar by urinating more often. This can cause dehydration, leading to excessive thirst.

Similarly, when blood sugar levels are high, the body cannot use this glucose for energy, causing hunger.

2. Frequent urination

As mentioned earlier, frequent urination is a common symptom of diabetes. This is because the body tries to get rid of excess sugar by excreting it in the urine.

However, frequent urination can also be a symptom of other conditions such as a urinary tract infection or an enlarged prostate. If you experience this symptom, it is important to see a doctor.

3. Fatigue and weakness

When blood sugar levels are high, the body cannot use glucose for energy. This can result in fatigue and weakness, even if you have not engaged in any physical activity.

If you experience this symptom, it is important to get your blood sugar levels checked.

4. Blurry vision

High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in your eyes to swell, resulting in blurry vision. This symptom usually goes away once blood sugar levels are under control.

However, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious eye problems such as glaucoma, cataracts, or even blindness.

5. Slow healing of cuts and sores

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, which can slow down the healing process of cuts and sores. If you notice that your wounds are taking longer than normal to heal, it may be a sign of diabetes.

6. Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, resulting in numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. This is known as diabetic neuropathy and can become a serious problem if left untreated.

7. Dry and itchy skin

High blood sugar levels can cause dry and itchy skin, particularly on the hands, feet, and legs. This symptom is often mistaken for a skin condition, but it is important to get your blood sugar levels checked to rule out diabetes.

8. Sudden weight loss

If you experience sudden weight loss without trying to lose weight, it may be a sign of diabetes. This is because when the body cannot use glucose for energy, it starts to break down fat and muscle for fuel.

9. Recurring infections

High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections. If you experience recurring infections such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, or skin infections, it may be a sign of diabetes.

10. Irritability and mood changes

High blood sugar levels can affect your mood and cause irritability. This can be due to the body’s inability to regulate glucose levels, which can affect the brain’s chemistry.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get your blood sugar levels checked. Diabetes is a serious condition, but it can be managed with proper diet, exercise, and medication.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and even death.