Signs & symptoms of Diabetes

Common symptoms of Type 2 diabetes

Numbness – An increase in blood sugar levels can cause a decrease in blood flow to the hands and feet causing numbness and tingling in the extremities; this can lead to damage of the nerve fibres.

Increased urination – The kidneys are working hard to flush the extra glucose out of the blood stream and into the urine; watch out for increased need to pee.

Thirst – As the kidneys excrete the glucose into the urine, fluids are also taken from your tissues; this leads to dehydration and increased thirst.

Weight loss and increased hunger - As the body cannot absorb glucose properly for energy, it will use fat and muscle as a source of energy; this can cause weight loss and increased hunger. If you notice you have lost weight and cannot think why, get yourself tested.

Blurry vision – Is your vision blurry? Your vision can be a sign you have diabetes. High blood sugar can cause the lens inside the eye to swell and change the shape of the eyeball; this can lead to blurry vision. Diabetes can also cause damage to the tiny blood vessels that supply the retina, causing retinopathy and that can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Itchy dry skin – High blood glucose can cause visible signs on your skin, including fungal infections and dehydrated, dry flaky skin. High blood glucose over a period of time can limit your blood flow, reducing the healthy nutrients and oxygen getting to the skin and giving it what it needs to heal and regenerate each day.

Slow healing cuts or bruises – with or without infection.

Fatigue – a tiredness that just won’t go away. 

Irritated gums – Often picked up by a Dentist.  High blood glucose levels can cause your gums to become red, swollen, and irritated.

It is also important to be aware that some people may not experience any symptoms. As type 2 diabetes can develop slowly over time, you may not notice these changes in your body. The best way to monitor any changes is to get regular check-ups with your doctor if you are an at-risk person. Check out our page on getting tested for diabetes.