Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels, which can lead to various complications if left untreated.

Recognizing the early warning signs of diabetes is crucial in order to seek early medical intervention and prevent the progression of the disease. In this article, we will discuss ten common early warning signs of diabetes that you should be aware of.

1. Frequent Urination

One of the most common early signs of diabetes is increased urination frequency, also known as polyuria. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to filter and absorb the excess glucose.

This can lead to more frequent trips to the restroom, especially during the night.

2. Excessive Thirst

Excessive thirst, also called polydipsia, often accompanies frequent urination in people with diabetes. As the body loses more fluid through increased urine output, it tries to compensate by triggering an increased feeling of thirst.

This can result in constantly feeling thirsty and the need to drink more fluids than usual.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be an early warning sign of diabetes, particularly in type 1 diabetes. When the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces, it begins to break down fat and muscle for energy.

This leads to unintentional weight loss, despite maintaining a normal or increased appetite.

4. Increased Hunger

While weight loss is more commonly associated with diabetes, increased hunger can also be a sign of the condition. When there is insufficient insulin or the body cannot effectively use the insulin, glucose cannot enter cells to provide energy.

This triggers excessive hunger as the body tries to obtain energy from increased food intake.

5. Fatigue

Chronic fatigue and feeling excessively tired are common symptoms of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can impair the body’s ability to convert glucose into energy, resulting in a constant feeling of weariness and low energy levels.

6. Slow Healing of Cuts and Wounds

Diabetes can affect the body’s ability to heal wounds and cuts. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, reducing blood circulation to affected areas and impairing the natural healing process.

If you notice that your wounds take longer to heal than usual, it may be a sign of diabetes.

7. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision can occur when high blood sugar levels cause changes in the shape of the lens of the eye. This can lead to temporary changes in vision, making objects appear blurry or out of focus.

If you experience sudden changes in your vision, it is important to get your blood sugar levels checked by a healthcare professional.

8. Numbness or Tingling Sensation

Diabetes can cause nerve damage, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. Numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the hands, feet, or legs may indicate the presence of diabetes.

This neuropathy often starts in the extremities and gradually spreads to other parts of the body.

9. Recurring Infections

People with diabetes are more susceptible to infections due to the impaired immune system function caused by high blood sugar levels.

Recurring infections, such as yeast infections in women, urinary tract infections, or skin infections, may be a sign of underlying diabetes.

10. Increased Risk Factors

Having certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing diabetes. If you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight or obese, have a sedentary lifestyle, or have a history of gestational diabetes, you may be at a higher risk.

Being aware of these risk factors can help you identify the early warning signs of diabetes.