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The number of people living with diabetes rose dramatically from about 200 million in 1990 to over 830 million in 2022, according to a WHO report. This sharp increase highlights how diabetes has become one of the most pressing health challenges of our time, especially in low- and middle-income countries where the prevalence is rising more rapidly than in high-income nations.
Understanding the types of diabetes, early warning signs, diagnosis, and management options is essential for recognising risks early and taking timely action to prevent complications. This blog explores the most common diabetes symptoms, why they happen, and when you should seek medical help.
Diabetes can remain undiagnosed for years because the early symptoms are often mild or mistaken for everyday health issues such as stress, dehydration, or ageing. The longer diabetes remains uncontrolled, the greater the risk of complications like cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and neuropathy.
Identifying symptoms early allows doctors to diagnose diabetes through simple blood tests and begin timely treatment. Early detection also makes diabetes management more effective, helping patients maintain a better quality of life.
1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)
One of the earliest signs of diabetes is frequent urination, especially at night. Excess glucose in the bloodstream forces the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb sugar, which leads to increased urine production.
If you find yourself waking up multiple times during the night to urinate, it may be an early warning sign of diabetes.
2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)
Closely linked with frequent urination is excessive thirst. As the body loses more fluids, dehydration sets in, leading to an unquenchable need to drink water.
Even after drinking plenty, you may still feel thirsty. This combination of symptoms should never be ignored.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Despite eating normally or sometimes more than usual, people with diabetes may lose weight rapidly. This happens because the body cannot use glucose properly for energy and begins breaking down fat and muscle instead.
This symptom is prevalent in Type 1 diabetes and should raise a red flag if the weight loss is sudden and unintentional.
4. Constant Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time is another sign of high blood sugar. When glucose cannot enter cells to provide energy, the result is persistent fatigue.
This exhaustion may affect your ability to concentrate, perform daily tasks, and maintain emotional well-being. If rest does not seem to help, diabetes could be the cause.
5. Blurred Vision
High blood sugar can cause fluid to shift within the lenses of the eyes, leading to blurred or fluctuating vision. While this problem may improve once blood sugar is stabilised, ignoring it may lead to diabetic retinopathy, which can cause permanent vision loss.
6. Slow Healing of Wounds and Frequent Infections
Cuts, sores, and wounds that take longer to heal are another warning sign. High sugar levels weaken blood circulation and reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.
Women may also experience recurring yeast infections due to high glucose levels.
7. Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet
Over time, excess blood sugar damages nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the hands and feet.
This is usually a sign of long-term uncontrolled diabetes, but mild symptoms may appear early. Addressing it quickly can prevent permanent nerve damage.
8. Other Symptoms to Watch Out For
In addition to the significant signs above, you may notice:
If you experience one or more of these symptoms consistently, it’s time to consult a doctor. Diabetes diagnosis is usually confirmed through:
Early diagnosis means you can start treatment quickly, lowering the risk of life-threatening complications.
Being diagnosed with diabetes may feel overwhelming, but effective management can help you live a whole and healthy life. Treatment usually combines:
Routine monitoring helps track progress and prevents complications. Eye exams, kidney tests, and foot checks are essential for people living with diabetes.
Diabetes symptoms can often be subtle at first, but recognising them early can make a life-changing difference. Frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, constant fatigue, and slow-healing wounds are all signals that should prompt immediate medical attention. Delaying diagnosis or treatment can lead to severe complications, while early intervention allows effective diabetes management.
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, don’t delay, book a consultation with Dr Jauzy Akram at Krishna Medical Centre, Lucknow. Early detection of diabetes can help prevent serious health complications and make management much easier. Taking action today gives you the best chance to protect your long-term health, maintain normal sugar levels, and live a healthier, more active life.
