Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. It happens when the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin or when the body can’t effectively use the insulin it produces.

This results in high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health problems over time.

It’s important to be aware of the signs of diabetes so that you can take action to prevent or manage the condition. Here are some important signs to watch out for:.

1. Frequent Urination

One of the most common signs of diabetes is frequent urination, which is also known as polyuria. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to filter the excess glucose out of the blood.

This results in more urine production and more frequent trips to the bathroom.

2. Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination can also cause excessive thirst, which is known as polydipsia. When you lose more fluids through urination, your body signals you to drink more water to replace it.

Excessive thirst can be a sign that your blood sugar levels are too high and that you may have diabetes.

3. Fatigue

High blood sugar levels can make you feel tired and sluggish, even if you’re getting enough rest. This is because your body can’t effectively use glucose for energy, so you may feel like you’re running on empty.

If you’re feeling fatigued all the time, it could be a sign of diabetes.

4. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar levels can also damage the blood vessels in your eyes, which can lead to blurry vision.

If you’re experiencing blurry vision or have trouble focusing, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked, as this could be a sign of diabetes.

5. Slow Healing Wounds

Diabetes can also affect your body’s ability to heal. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves, which can slow down the healing process.

If you notice that your cuts or wounds are not healing as quickly as they should be, it could be a sign of diabetes.

6. Numbness or Tingling in the Hands or Feet

High blood sugar levels can also damage the nerves in your hands and feet, which can cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked, as this could be a sign of diabetes.

7. Recurring Infections

People with diabetes are more prone to infections, especially in the urinary tract, skin, and gums.

If you’re getting frequent infections that don’t seem to go away, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked, as this could be a sign of diabetes.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexpected weight loss can be a sign of diabetes, especially if you’re losing weight without changing your diet or exercise habits.

When your body can’t effectively use glucose for energy, it may start burning fat and muscle for fuel instead. This can lead to weight loss, even if you’re eating the same amount of food as before.

9. Increased Hunger

Some people with diabetes may experience increased hunger, even if they’re eating enough food. This is because their body can’t effectively use the glucose in their blood for energy, so it signals them to eat more.

If you’re constantly hungry, it could be a sign of diabetes.

10. Dry Mouth

High blood sugar levels can also cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and can lead to other oral health problems.

If you’re experiencing dry mouth, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked, as this could be a sign of diabetes.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked by a healthcare professional. Early detection and treatment can help prevent or manage the health problems associated with diabetes.