7 early signs of diabetes in the body

One of the most common lifestyle diseases, diabetes affects is rapidly increasing both in India and across the world. A 2021 study titled 'Epidemiology of type 2 diabetes in India' reads, "India has the second highest number of diabetics worldwide after China. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), India had about 77 million adults with diabetes in 2019. This burden is expected to increase to over 101 million by 2030 and around 134 million by 2045." This makes detecting, curing, or managing diabetes important for improving people's quality of life in the long run.

For the unversed, diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose), which is the main source of energy. Often called a “silent disease,” particularly Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually with subtle signs that many people ignore or mistake for everyday issues initially. But catching these subtle signs of diabetes early can make a huge difference in managing or even reversing the condition through some lifestyle changes. Here we list some early signs of diabetes in the body one should not ignore:

One of the early signs of diabetes is feeling extremely thirsty all the time, even after drinking water. This generally happens because high blood sugar pulls fluid from your tissues, making you feel dehydrated. And so, your body constantly signals you to drink more water. This excessive thirst, mainly at night, is often accompanied by a dry mouth or a sticky feeling in your mouth.

Have you lately noticed that you visit the bathroom more often— especially at night? This might be another early symptom of diabetes. When the glucose levels are high in the blood, the kidneys try to flush it out along with urine thus leading to frequent urination. If this sounds familiar to you, then do not take it lightly and get your blood sugar levels checked at the earliest.

Losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, or any particular reason should be considered a red flag. When your body can't get enough glucose into the cells for energy, it starts to break down muscle and fat instead for energy. This in turn causes sudden and unexplained weight loss. This particular symptom is more common in people who have Type 1 diabetes. However, it can also occur in cases of Type 2 diabetes.

Do you often feel tired all the time— even after getting enough rest? This can be a subtle sign that your body isn't processing glucose properly. When the cells in your body don’t get enough glucose or energy, you may feel weak or sluggish throughout the day. And this fatigue doesn't generally of away by having caffeine or naps. It's a common but often overlooked symptom of diabetes and can interfere with one's everyday life.

High blood sugar can affect the lenses in your eyes by pulling the fluid from them, thus making it hard to focus and blurring your vision. If left unchecked or uncontrolled, high glucose levels can even damage the small blood vessels in the retina thus causing serious eye issues or even vision loss in the long run. If you have lately noticed that blurred vision along with others signs, then do no take things lightly. Instead, get your blood sugar tests done and consult your doctor.

Diabetes can affect blood circulation and weaken the immune system-- thus making even small cuts and wounds hard to heal. If you notice that even small cuts or bruises are now taking longer to heal or getting worse with time, it could be due to high glucose levels in your bodyy. This is especially common on the feet and legs, and should not be ignored.

One of the more serious and early signs of diabetes is nerve damage, also called diabetic neuropathy. This generally starts as a sensation of tingling, burning, or numbness which is felt in the fingers, toes, hands, or feet. This is caused by high blood sugar levels that silently damage the nerve endings. If left undetected or untreated, it can even lead to permanent nerve damage in the long run. So, pay attention to the subtle signs your body gives that can indicate to serious underlying health issues.

Even if you are at low risk for diabetes, watch what you eat

Even you are not at risk, get yourself tested each year.(Image: CANVA)

If you observe these signs, talk to a healthcare provider.

Take note of these signs. Do not ignore them. You can take necessary steps to prevent it from progressing to type 2 diabetes.