Diabetes Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn about the signs of diabetes. Millions of people live with diabetes, yet many remain undiagnosed. Early detection can prevent serious complications. Therefore, understanding the symptoms and risks is essential.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar. According to Diabetes Canada, every three minutes, someone in Canada is diagnosed with diabetes.

The body either doesn’t produce insulin or doesn’t use it effectively. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose for energy. Without it, glucose builds up in the blood.

What are the Different Types of Diabetes

There are four types of diabetes. Each one is explained in details below:

Type 1 Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This autoimmune reaction destroys beta cells, which produce insulin. Without insulin, glucose cannot enter cells. As a result, blood sugar levels rise dangerously.

Doctors usually diagnose type 1 diabetes in children and young adults. However, it can develop at any age. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily. They also need to monitor their blood sugar regularly. Diet and exercise support management, but insulin remains essential.

Researchers believe genetics and environmental triggers cause type 1 diabetes. Viral infections may play a role. However, lifestyle does not influence its development.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin. The pancreas still produces insulin, but cells stop responding. Over time, insulin production may decrease. This leads to high blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes usually affects adults over 40. However, rising obesity rates have increased cases in younger people. Unlike type 1, type 2 diabetes often develops slowly. Many people live with it for years before diagnosis.

Doctors manage type 2 diabetes with lifestyle changes. Patients improve their condition by losing weight, eating healthy, and exercising. Some may need oral medications or insulin. Early intervention can prevent complications.

Genetics play a role, but lifestyle factors matter more. Poor diet, inactivity, and obesity increase risk. Prevention is possible with healthy habits.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women. Hormones from the placenta interfere with insulin. This causes blood sugar levels to rise during pregnancy.

Doctors usually diagnose gestational diabetes between weeks 24 and 28. It does not mean the woman had diabetes before pregnancy. Most cases resolve after childbirth. However, it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes later.

Women manage gestational diabetes with diet and exercise. However, some may need insulin. It is important to note that high sugar levels can lead to complications like large birth weight and premature delivery. That is why, doctors monitor blood sugar closely to protect both mother and baby.

Risk factors include obesity, family history, and previous gestational diabetes. Screening during pregnancy ensures early detection.

Prediabetes

Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for diabetes. Fortunately, it serves as a warning sign to reverse the condition within time. However, without the necessary actions, prediabetes often leads to type 2 diabetes.

Doctors diagnose prediabetes with fasting glucose or A1C tests. People with prediabetes may not show symptoms. However, they face increased risks for heart disease and stroke.

Fortunately, lifestyle changes can reverse prediabetes. For example, early actions like weight management, healthy eating, and regular exercise can lower blood sugar, and consequently prevents progression to diabetes.

Each type requires different management. Understanding them helps tailor treatment.

Signs of Diabetes in Adults

Recognizing the signs of diabetes in adults is crucial. Symptoms may develop slowly, especially in type 2 diabetes. Adults often dismiss early signs of diabetes as aging or stress.

• Frequent urination: This happens because high blood sugar forces kidneys to work harder.
• Excessive thirst: The body loses fluids through urination, causing dehydration and eventually, excessive thirst.
• Fatigue: Cells lose the ability to absorb glucose, leading to low energy.
• Blurred vision: High sugar levels damage eye tissues.
• Slow-healing wounds: Poor circulation and immune response delay healing.

Common Signs of Diabetes:

These symptoms may appear mild but signal serious issues. Early detection helps manage the condition effectively.

What Are 10 Warning Signs of Diabetes?

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria) is one of the most common signs of diabetes

Frequent urination is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of diabetes. This condition, known medically as polyuria, occurs when excess glucose builds up in the blood. The kidneys, in an attempt to filter and remove this surplus sugar, pull more water from the bloodstream to dilute and excrete the glucose through urine. As a result, you may find yourself urinating more often—sometimes every hour, including during the night (a condition called nocturia).

This symptom is especially concerning because it leads to dehydration, which can worsen other symptoms like fatigue and dry skin. If you’re urinating more than 7–8 times a day without increasing your fluid intake, it’s time to get tested.

2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia) comes second

Excessive thirst ranks among the most common signs of diabetes and often appears early in its progression. Polydipsia, of excessive thirst, is closely linked to frequent urination. As your body loses more fluids through urine, it signals the brain to replenish water levels, triggering intense and persistent thirst. This thirst doesn’t go away even after drinking large amounts of water.

Polydipsia is not just about being thirsty after exercise or salty food—it’s a constant, nagging dryness in the mouth and throat. If you find yourself waking up at night to drink water or carrying a water bottle everywhere, it could be a red flag for diabetes.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss Is One of the Early Signs of Diabetes You Shouldn’t Ignore

Losing weight without trying—especially 10 pounds or more over a few months—is a serious sign of diabetes. In diabetes, the body cannot use glucose for energy due to lack of insulin or insulin resistance. As a result, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel.

This process leads to rapid weight loss, even if you’re eating normally or more than usual. It’s more common in type 1 diabetes but can also occur in type 2. If you notice your clothes fitting looser or a drop in weight without dieting, consult your doctor immediately.

4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)

Despite eating regularly—or even more than usual—you may feel constantly hungry. This condition, called polyphagia, happens because your cells are starved of glucose. Since insulin isn’t working properly, glucose can’t enter the cells, and your body thinks it’s not getting enough fuel.

This leads to a vicious cycle: you eat more, but your blood sugar rises instead of being used for energy. If you’re always hungry, especially after meals, it’s a sign your body isn’t processing food correctly.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue in diabetes is more than just feeling tired. It’s a deep, persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. This happens because your body can’t efficiently convert glucose into energy. As a result, your muscles and brain don’t get the fuel they need.

Other contributing factors include dehydration, inflammation, and poor sleep due to frequent urination. If you feel drained all the time—even after a full night’s sleep—it could be a sign of diabetes.

6. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision is a common but often overlooked sign of diabetes. High blood sugar causes the lens of the eye to swell, altering its shape and affecting your ability to focus. This can lead to temporary vision changes, such as difficulty reading or seeing clearly.

If left untreated, prolonged high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy—a leading cause of blindness. If your vision fluctuates or becomes blurry, don’t wait for it to improve on its own.

7. Slow-Healing Wounds Signal One of the Key Signs of Diabetes

Cuts, scrapes, and sores that take weeks to heal are hallmark signs of diabetes. High blood sugar impairs circulation and weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to repair damaged tissue.

This is especially dangerous for the feet, where poor blood flow can lead to ulcers and infections. In severe cases, untreated wounds can result in gangrene and amputation. Always monitor injuries closely and seek medical attention if healing is delayed.

8. Tingling or Numbness in Hands or Feet

This symptom, known as peripheral neuropathy, is caused by nerve damage from prolonged high blood sugar. It often starts as a tingling or burning sensation in the toes or fingers and can progress to numbness or pain.

Neuropathy affects up to 60% of people with diabetes and can lead to loss of sensation, making it easy to miss injuries. Early detection and blood sugar control are key to preventing permanent nerve damage.

9. Dark Patches on the Skin

Dark, velvety patches of skin—especially around the neck, armpits, or groin—are a condition called acanthosis nigricans. This is often a sign of insulin resistance and is commonly seen in people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.

These patches may feel thick or itchy and are more common in people with higher weight. While not harmful on their own, they are a visible warning that your body is struggling to manage insulin.

10. Frequent Infections Are Among the Overlooked Signs of Diabetes

People with diabetes are more prone to infections due to a weakened immune system. High blood sugar creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Common infections include urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, gum disease, and skin infections.

Infections may also take longer to heal and can become more severe. If you find yourself getting sick often or struggling to recover, it’s time to check your blood sugar levels.

Most Common Questions About the Signs of Diabetes Answered

Signs of Diabetes Question 1: Is Feeling Sleepy After Eating a Sign of Diabetes?

Yes, it can be. Feeling sleepy after eating may indicate blood sugar imbalance. According to DiabetesTeam, post-meal drowsiness can result from high or low blood sugar. In diabetes, the body struggles to regulate glucose after meals. This leads to fatigue and sometimes confusion.

However, occasional sleepiness isn’t always a concern. Persistent fatigue after meals should prompt a blood sugar test.

Signs of Diabetes Question 2: Is Drooling in Your Sleep a Sign of Diabetes?

Drooling during sleep is usually harmless, but it can relate to diabetes. According to DiabetesTeam, frequent drooling may signal nerve dysfunction or medication side effects. Diabetes can affect nerves controlling saliva production. While not a primary symptom, it’s worth discussing with your doctor if it persists.

Signs of Diabetes Question 3: Are Itchy Ankles a Sign of Diabetes?

Yes. Itchy ankles can be a sign of diabetic skin complications. High blood sugar causes dry skin and poor circulation. According to Diabetes.co.uk, itching in the lower limbs is common among diabetics. It may result from neuropathy or infections. Treating the underlying diabetes often reduces the itch.

Signs of Diabetes Question 4: Are Itchy Armpits a Sign of Diabetes?

Itchy armpits may indicate diabetes-related skin issues. High sugar levels can cause dryness and fungal infections. According to Diabetes Diet Life, persistent itching in the armpits may signal elevated blood sugar. If accompanied by other symptoms, it’s wise to get tested.

Is Diabetes Genetic?

Genetics play a role in diabetes, but lifestyle matters too. According to Verywell Health, having a parent or sibling with diabetes increases your risk. . Type 1 diabetes has stronger genetic links. Type 2 diabetes combines genetic and environmental factors. However, not everyone with a family history develops diabetes.

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Key Differences Explained

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes differ in cause, onset, and treatment. Understanding these differences in the causes, onset, treatment, and risks of diabetes type 1 vs type 2 can help manage the condition better.

Cause

Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune attack. The immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells. This leaves the body unable to produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes stems from insulin resistance. The body produces insulin, but cells ignore it. Over time, insulin production may decline.

Type 1 has strong genetic and environmental links. Type 2 involves genetics but depends heavily on lifestyle.

Onset

Type 1 diabetes usually begins in childhood or adolescence. Symptoms appear suddenly and progress quickly. Patients often experience extreme thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss.

Type 2 diabetes develops gradually. It often goes unnoticed for years. Symptoms may include fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds.

Doctors diagnose type 1 quickly due to rapid onset. Type 2 often requires screening and blood tests.

Treatment

Type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy. Patients inject insulin daily or use pumps. They must monitor blood sugar frequently. Diet and exercise support treatment but cannot replace insulin.

Type 2 diabetes starts with lifestyle changes. Patients improve blood sugar by eating healthy, exercising, and losing weight. Doctors may prescribe oral medications. Some patients eventually need insulin.

Type 1 demands lifelong insulin. Type 2 may be reversible with early intervention.

Risk Factors

Type 1 diabetes affects people regardless of weight or lifestyle. Family history and autoimmune conditions increase risk.

Type 2 diabetes links to obesity, poor diet, and inactivity. Age and ethnicity also play roles. Prevention focuses on healthy habits.

Complications

Both types can cause serious complications. These include heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and vision loss. Managing blood sugar reduces risks.

Type 1 patients face higher risk for ketoacidosis. Type 2 patients often deal with cardiovascular problems.

How Do You Get Diabetes?

Diabetes develops from a mix of genetic and lifestyle factors. According to Medical News Today, type 1 diabetes results from autoimmune destruction of insulin cells. Type 2 diabetes stems from insulin resistance, often linked to obesity and inactivity. Gestational diabetes arises from hormonal changes during pregnancy.

How to Test for Diabetes

You may have diabetes without obvious symptoms. According to Healthline, early signs include thirst, fatigue, and frequent urination. The only way to confirm is through testing. If you have risk factors like obesity or family history, ask your doctor for a screening.

Testing is simple and quick. According to the CDC, doctors use blood tests to diagnose diabetes. Common tests include:

Fasting Blood Glucose Test – The most common method to detect the signs of diabetes

Doctors use the fasting blood glucose test to measure your blood sugar after you’ve fasted for at least 8 hours. You must avoid all food and drinks except water before the test. This ensures accurate results without interference from recent meals.

During the test, a healthcare provider draws a small blood sample. They analyze the glucose concentration in your blood. If your fasting blood sugar is:

• Below 100 mg/dL: You have normal glucose levels.
• Between 100–125 mg/dL: You may have prediabetes.
• 126 mg/dL or higher: You likely have diabetes.

This test helps detect early signs of diabetes. It also monitors glucose control in diagnosed patients. Doctors often use it as a first step in screening.

A1C Test (Hemoglobin A1C)- Tests the percentage of glucose in the red blood cells

The A1C test shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months. It measures the percentage of glucose attached to hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Since red blood cells live for about 3 months, the test reflects long-term glucose exposure.

Doctors prefer the A1C test because it doesn’t require fasting. They draw a blood sample and send it to a lab. Results fall into these categories:

• Below 5.7%: Normal
• 5.7% to 6.4%: Prediabetes
• 6.5% or higher: Diabetes

The A1C test helps track how well you manage diabetes. It also identifies people at risk. Doctors recommend repeating the test every 3–6 months for diabetic patients.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) – Shows how the body handles sugar

Doctors use the oral glucose tolerance test to assess how your body handles sugar over time. You must fast for 8 hours before the test. First, they measure your fasting blood sugar. Then, you drink a sweet glucose solution—usually containing 75 grams of sugar.

After drinking the solution, doctors measure your blood sugar at intervals—typically after 1 hour and 2 hours. Results indicate how quickly your body clears glucose from the bloodstream.

• Below 140 mg/dL after 2 hours: Normal
• 140–199 mg/dL: Prediabetes
• 200 mg/dL or higher: Diabetes

Doctors often use OGTT to diagnose gestational diabetes. It provides a dynamic view of glucose metabolism. The test reveals insulin resistance and delayed glucose clearance.

Home Glucose Meters – A tool to test blood sugar at home

You can use home glucose meters to check your blood sugar daily. These devices provide quick readings from a small drop of blood. You prick your finger with a lancet, place the blood on a test strip, and insert it into the meter.

Home meters help you monitor sugar levels between doctor visits. They guide meal planning, medication timing, and physical activity. However, they don’t replace lab tests. They offer snapshots, not long-term trends.

Doctors recommend using home meters if you take insulin or have fluctuating sugar levels. You should record your readings and share them with your healthcare provider.

You can also use home glucose meters. However, lab tests provide accurate diagnosis.

Can Diabetes Be Reversed?

Type 2 diabetes can enter remission with lifestyle changes. According to WebMD, weight loss and exercise help some people stop medication. Very low-calorie diets may reverse diabetes in 8–12 weeks. However, remission doesn’t mean cure. You must continue healthy habits to maintain it.

On the other hand, Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed. It requires lifelong insulin therapy.

How Can You Prevent the Signs of Diabetes?

You can prevent type 2 diabetes with healthy choices. According to Diabetes Canada, lifestyle changes reduce risk.

• Eat balanced meals: Choose whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity.
• Maintain healthy weight: Obesity increases risk.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking worsens insulin resistance.

Even small changes make a big difference. Most importantly, prevention is possible. Therefore get a screening from your nearest clinic. Express Medical care is Here to help.