What are the first signs of diabetes?
The classic early signs are thirst that does not quit, urinating more than usual including at night, unexplained tiredness, and blurred vision. Some people notice slow-healing cuts or repeated skin and urine infections.
Type 2 diabetes often creeps in with no symptoms at all for years, which is why screening matters from around age 35, earlier with excess weight or family history.
If these signs sound familiar, a simple fasting glucose or HbA1c settles it within a day. Do not wait on symptoms to be dramatic.
Source: NHS, type 2 diabetes
See a doctor promptly if
- Excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision or unexplained weight loss. These suggest diabetes and need testing, not tracking
- Sweating, shakiness, palpitations or confusion a few hours after eating that resolves with food, especially if repeated
- A fasting glucose of 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or more, or an HbA1c of 6.5 percent (48 mmol/mol) or more on repeat testing
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Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS · How we review
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