Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood due to the body’s inability to process it effectively.

If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as kidney failure, blindness, and cardiovascular disease. The good news is that with early diagnosis and proper management, people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives. Here are some of the early signs of diabetes to watch out for:.

Frequent Urination

If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night, it could be a sign of diabetes. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys have to work harder to filter and absorb excess glucose.

This leads to more urine production, which in turn causes increased urination.

Increased Thirst

If you’re experiencing frequent thirst, even after drinking plenty of fluids, it could be a sign of diabetes. The excess glucose in the blood causes fluids to be pulled from the body’s tissues, which triggers thirst receptors in the brain.

Blurry Vision

High blood sugar levels can cause the lens in your eye to swell, resulting in blurry vision. This is usually temporary and can be corrected once blood sugar levels are under control.

Slow Healing

Diabetes can impair the body’s ability to heal itself. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, which can lead to poor circulation and slow wound healing.

Tingling and Numbness

Elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, particularly in the hands and feet. This can cause tingling and numbness, and in severe cases, can lead to nerve damage and loss of sensation.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of diabetes. When the body can’t process glucose effectively, it begins to break down fat and muscle for energy, which can cause rapid, unexplained weight loss.

Fatigue

If you’re feeling tired and worn out, especially after meals, it could be a sign of diabetes. When blood sugar levels are high, the body has to work harder to process glucose, which can lead to fatigue and exhaustion.

Skin Problems

People with diabetes are more susceptible to skin problems, including bacterial infections, fungal infections and itching. High blood sugar levels can also cause dry skin, which can lead to cracking and infection.

Increased Hunger

If you’re feeling hungry all the time, even after eating, it could be a sign of diabetes. When blood sugar levels are high, the body has difficulty accessing the glucose it needs for energy, which can trigger hunger pangs.

Slow Mental Functioning

High blood sugar levels can impair cognitive function and cause difficulty concentrating. This can be particularly problematic for people who need to perform mental tasks as part of their work or daily routine.