Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects nearly 12% of people in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many people don’t know they have it, which puts them at risk of serious health problems.
Dr. Alyssa Dominguez, an endocrinologist at Keck Medicine of USC, says that people often don’t have any symptoms in the early stages of diabetes. That’s why the American Diabetes Association recommends that all adults get screened for diabetes by age 35.
Screening is even more important for people with risk factors such as a family history of diabetes, prediabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, or a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight or obese range.
A simple blood test at your doctor’s office is the best way to know if you have diabetes. But there are also some warning signs you can look out for. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to see your doctor and get tested.
One common sign is urinating more than usual. Dr. Dominguez says that this is different for everyone, so you should pay attention to what’s normal for you. If you find yourself going to the bathroom much more than usual, it could be a sign of high blood sugar. But keep in mind that other health problems, like prostate issues or menopause, can also cause this.
Another early sign of diabetes is feeling very thirsty. High blood sugar makes you urinate more, which can lead to dehydration. This, in turn, causes you to feel thirstier than normal.
Unexpected weight loss can also be a sign. Dr. Dominguez explains that when insulin isn’t working properly, your body may start using fat and muscle for energy instead of sugar. This can cause you to lose weight quickly, even if you’re eating normally.
Changes in your skin might also signal diabetes. Skin tags—small, soft growths—can mean you have insulin resistance. Another skin change to watch for is dark, velvety patches on the back of your neck or in your armpits. This condition is called acanthosis nigricans and is often linked to diabetes.
Slow healing of cuts or wounds can also be a warning sign. High blood sugar levels can make it harder for your body to repair itself. While this is more common in people with advanced diabetes, it can also show up in people who haven’t seen a doctor in a while and don’t realize they have high blood sugar.
Even if you don’t have any of these symptoms, it’s still important to get screened. Doctors often check for diabetes using a hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test or a fasting blood glucose test. These are usually included in regular blood work during check-ups.
Dr. Dominguez stresses that early diabetes often has no symptoms at all. Getting tested before symptoms start is the best way to catch the disease early and begin treatment. This can help prevent serious problems like heart disease, nerve damage, or vision loss later on.
In summary, diabetes is a serious condition, but early screening and awareness of warning signs can help people manage it effectively and stay healthy.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about bananas and diabetes, and honey could help control blood sugar.
For more health information, please see recent studies about Vitamin D that may reduce dangerous complications in diabetes and results showing plant-based protein foods may help reverse type 2 diabetes.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
