Diabetes can develop quietly, especially type 2 diabetes. Some people may have symptoms that are easy to overlook, while others may have no obvious symptoms at all. Knowing the early signs can help you recognise when it may be time to get tested.
Here are five symptoms to watch for:
1. Frequent Urination
Needing to urinate more often than usual can be an early sign of diabetes. When blood glucose levels are too high, the kidneys work harder to remove the excess glucose from the body, which can increase urine production.
2. Increased Thirst
Frequent urination can leave the body short of fluids, leading to unusual or persistent thirst. If you constantly feel thirsty even after drinking enough water, it is worth paying attention to.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without changing your diet or physical activity may be another warning sign. When the body cannot use glucose properly for energy, it may begin breaking down stored fat and muscle instead.
4. Persistent Tiredness
Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy, even after getting enough rest, can occur when glucose is not effectively entering the body’s cells to provide energy.
5. Blurred Vision
High blood glucose levels can affect the eyes and cause temporary blurred vision. Although there are several possible causes of blurred vision, persistent changes should not be ignored.
When Should You Get Tested?
Having one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean you have diabetes. However, they are reasons to speak with a healthcare professional and consider getting your blood glucose checked.
Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests such as fasting blood glucose or HbA1c. A glucose meter used at home can help monitor blood sugar, but it should not be used on its own to diagnose diabetes.
Early diabetes symptoms can be subtle, but recognizing them can make a difference. If you notice persistent changes such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, tiredness or blurred vision, do not simply dismiss them.
Early testing can help identify diabetes and support timely treatment and management.
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