Did you know that millions of people are living with undiagnosed diabetes? Diabetes is a growing concern globally, especially in India, where the rising number of diabetes cases is alarming. Early detection of diabetes is vital for effective management and to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and even vision loss.
In this blog, we will help you identify the early symptoms of diabetes, explain why early diagnosis is essential, and guide you on the following steps to take if you notice these symptoms.
Diabetes is a condition where your blood sugar (glucose) levels are consistently too high. The body either doesn’t make sufficient insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2 diabetes), or in some cases, both. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy but generally goes away after childbirth. Additionally, prediabetes is an early stage of Type 2 diabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.
Early detection of diabetes and prediabetes helps in preventing long-term complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision loss. The earlier you identify the symptoms and get a diagnosis, the sooner you can begin managing your blood sugar levels, adopting lifestyle changes, and preventing these severe health issues.
With rising cases of Type 2 diabetes, awareness and early screening are more crucial than ever. Regular screenings can catch the condition before it progresses into something more serious.
Recognising the early signs of diabetes can help in early intervention. Here are some of the most common early symptoms:
When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work overtime to filter and absorb the surplus glucose. This leads to increased urination, particularly at night. Frequent urination may result in dehydration, leaving you feeling thirsty more often.
Due to frequent urination, your body loses a lot of water. This triggers intense thirst, as the body tries to replenish lost fluids. You may find yourself drinking more than usual, and despite this, still feeling thirsty.
When your body cannot use glucose properly due to insulin resistance, it starts burning fat and muscle for energy, leading to unexpected weight loss. This is particularly common in Type 1 diabetes, where the body can’t produce insulin, resulting in the breakdown of muscle and fat.
High blood sugar levels can make it tough for your body to use glucose effectively, leading to fatigue. If you feel exhausted all the time, despite getting enough sleep, it could be a sign of diabetes.
Extra glucose in the blood can cause the lenses of your eyes to swell, which leads to blurred vision. If you notice vision changes or difficulty focusing, check your blood sugar levels.
High blood sugar levels can degrade the body’s ability to heal itself. This can cause wounds to take longer to heal, and people with diabetes are more prone to infections like gum disease, skin infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Prolonged high blood sugar can damage your nerves, especially in the extremities, causing tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands, feet, or legs. This is a condition known as neuropathy, which can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes.
If your body isn’t able to use glucose effectively due to insulin resistance, you may experience extreme hunger. This condition, called polyphagia, can make you feel constantly hungry despite eating regularly.
Develops more gradually and often goes unnoticed for years. Symptoms may include fatigue, increased hunger, frequent infections, and blurred vision. Prediabetes, which is an early stage of Type 2 diabetes, happens when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Prediabetes serves as a warning sign that you’re at a greater risk of having Type 2 diabetes.
An autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce any insulin. Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes develop quickly, often within a few weeks. This includes extreme thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Occurs during pregnancy. It usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, but it may lead to increased thirst and urination. If left untreated, it can cause complications for both the mother and the baby.
If you notice multiple symptoms of diabetes, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and allow for timely intervention. A blood test, such as the HbA1c test or fasting glucose test, will give you a clear picture of your blood sugar levels and help determine whether you have diabetes or prediabetes. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. With early treatment, you can manage the condition effectively and lead a healthy life.
Adopting a healthy diet which contains fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage your blood sugar levels. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks and maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for controlling diabetes. Regular exercise is also essential. Target for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on a daily basis to improve insulin sensitivity and control blood sugar.
Routinely checking your blood glucose levels using a glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can help you track changes and ensure that your levels stay within a healthy range.
In some cases, oral medications or insulin therapy may be necessary, particularly for Type 1 diabetes or advanced Type 2 diabetes. Your healthcare provider will help create the best treatment plan for you.
Recognising the early symptoms of diabetes and seeking timely medical attention is fundamental for managing the condition and preventing serious complications. By making lifestyle changes, monitoring blood sugar, and seeking professional advice, you can effectively manage your health and improve your quality of life. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, take action now, as early diagnosis and treatment are key.
Are you experiencing any of the early symptoms of diabetes? Don't ignore the warning signs; take control of your health today. Book an appointment with our expert team at Curesta Health. Our experienced doctors will assess your condition, provide a thorough evaluation of your risk, and create a personalised treatment plan to manage your diabetes and prevent further complications effectively.
1. What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
The primary symptoms of diabetes are frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. If you experience these symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
2. Can diabetes be detected early without symptoms?
Yes, even without obvious symptoms, diabetes can be detected early through routine blood tests like the HbA1c test and fasting glucose test. Early detection is important for managing the condition before complications arise.
3. How can I reduce my risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?
You can decrease your risk of Type 2 diabetes by maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in routine physical activity, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, abstaining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
4. What is the HbA1c test, and why is it important?
The HbA1c test calculates the average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. It helps diagnose diabetes and monitor long-term blood sugar control. A result of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes.
5. When should I consult a doctor for diabetes symptoms?
If you experience any of the classic symptoms of diabetes or have risk factors like a family history, obesity, or hypertension, consult a doctor. Early diagnosis helps you prevent complications and manage your condition more effectively.
