It often starts quietly — a little more thirst, a few extra bathroom trips, or a sense of tiredness that never quite fades. For many, these small changes are easy to overlook.
But for thousands of people, they’re the first signs of something far more serious: type 2 diabetes.
Health experts estimate that tens of thousands of people live with type 2 diabetes without knowing it.
The condition develops gradually, and by the time it’s discovered, damage may already have begun to nerves, eyes, or blood vessels. Early detection is key — and the body often sends subtle clues before things escalate.
Also read: New study finds contraceptive pill may lower breast cancer risk
Why type 2 diabetes goes unnoticed
Unlike type 1 diabetes, which appears suddenly, type 2 diabetes builds up slowly over months or even years.
The body becomes resistant to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. At first, the pancreas compensates by producing more insulin — but eventually, it can’t keep up. That’s when symptoms start to appear.
Common symptoms to watch for
Although everyone’s experience is different, doctors highlight several early warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored:
- Persistent fatigue: Even after a full night’s sleep, you may feel drained or foggy.
- Increased thirst and frequent urination: High blood sugar pulls fluid from your tissues, making you thirstier and causing you to urinate more often.
- Blurry vision: Sugar buildup can change fluid levels in the eyes, temporarily distorting vision.
- Slow-healing cuts or infections: Elevated glucose impairs circulation and weakens immune response.
- Itching or skin changes: Dark, velvety patches — often around the neck or armpits — can be an early sign of insulin resistance.
The good news: It’s manageable — even reversible
When caught early, lifestyle changes can make a major difference. Studies from the American Diabetes Association show that regular exercise, balanced meals, and maintaining a healthy weight can lower blood sugar and, in some cases, reverse prediabetes entirely.
Also read: Breakthrough drug could protect millions from malaria
Doctors recommend checking in with your healthcare provider if you experience several of these symptoms — especially if you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or lead a sedentary lifestyle.
The article is based on information from Newsner
Also read: This is the maximum amount of sugar you should consume each day