Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s a disease that occurs when the levels of glucose (sugar) in your blood rise too high.

If left untreated, diabetes can cause serious health problems, including nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage. Here are some warning signs of diabetes you should never ignore:.

Excessive thirst and urination

If you find that you’re always thirsty, even after drinking plenty of water, it could be a sign of diabetes. This is because your body is trying to flush out the excess sugar in your blood through urine, which leads to dehydration.

Increased urination is also common in people with diabetes because the body is trying to remove the excess sugar.

Unexplained weight loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of diabetes. This is because your body is unable to properly use the glucose in your blood for energy, so it starts burning fat and muscle instead.

Extreme fatigue

If you’re feeling tired all the time, even after getting a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign of diabetes. This is because your body is unable to convert glucose into energy, which leads to fatigue and lethargy.

Tingling or numbness in your hands or feet

If you experience a tingling or numbness sensation in your hands or feet, it could be a sign of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels.

This is a common complication of diabetes, known as diabetic neuropathy, and can be very serious if left untreated.

Blurred vision

High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to vision problems such as blurry vision or even blindness. If you’ve noticed a change in your vision, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Dry, itchy skin

If you’ve noticed that your skin is dry and itchy, it could be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, which can cause skin to become dry and itchy.

Additionally, high blood sugar levels can cause skin infections, which can also cause itching and rashes.

Frequent infections and slow healing wounds

If you’re experiencing frequent infections, such as urinary tract infections or skin infections, it could be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels weaken the immune system, making your body more susceptible to infections.

Additionally, high blood sugar levels can slow down the healing of wounds and cuts.

Increased hunger

If you’re feeling hungry all the time, even after eating, it could be a sign of diabetes. This is because your body is unable to properly use the glucose in your blood for energy, leading to feelings of hunger.

Bad breath

If you have bad breath, even after brushing your teeth, it could be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth, which can cause bad breath.

Mood swings and irritability

If you’re experiencing mood swings and irritability, it could be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can affect your mood and cause irritability, anxiety, and even depression.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes can help prevent serious health problems in the future.