Some symptoms of diabetes, like increased hunger and thirst, can appear early, even before the condition is diagnosed.

The symptoms of diabetes can appear fairly early, but you may not always recognize them as diabetes symptoms.

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough of the hormone insulin to function properly or if cells can no longer respond to insulin as they should, known as insulin resistance.

Knowing what indicators to look for and what they might mean can help you recognize early symptoms of diabetes. This can help you get medical evaluation and treatment sooner.

This article will review what warning signs and symptoms of diabetes to watch for and when to contact a doctor.

infographic of the symptoms of diabetesShare on Pinterest
Illustration by Alyssa Kiefer

Diabetes symptoms may occur when blood sugar levels in your body become atypically elevated. Early diabetes may not have any symptoms or be very mild.

The most common symptoms of high blood sugar include:

Symptoms can vary from one person to the next. They also depend on which type of diabetes you have.

Early symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes tend to begin abruptly and dramatically. Type 1 diabetes is most often seen in children, adolescents, and young adults. However, type 1 diabetes can develop at any age.

It happens when the body’s immune system damages insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

In addition to the symptoms listed above, people with type 1 diabetes may notice quick and sudden weight loss.

Early symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adults but may also develop in younger people. You may be more likely to develop it if you have certain risk factors, such as:

  • a family history of type 2 diabetes
  • certain health conditions, including high blood pressure, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and obesity
  • low levels of physical activity

Many people with type 2 diabetes don’t experience any symptoms. Sometimes, symptoms are slow to develop.

Some people may have prediabetes, a health condition marked by high blood sugar that isn’t high enough to be considered diabetes. Prediabetes, unlike diabetes, can be reversed.

Some people with prediabetes of PCOS develop a condition called acanthosis nigricans, which causes patches of skin that may be darker, thicker, and feel velvety. It is an indicator of insulin resistance.

Symptoms of diabetes may be hard to identify, especially in the early stages. The most common symptoms, such as persistent thirst and fatigue, are often vague and can seem like everyday symptoms that aren’t very significant.

If you’re experiencing one or more of the following symptoms or have any diabetes risk factors, you should speak with a doctor about being screened for diabetes:

Even if your symptoms are minor, it’s important to get treatment if you have diabetes. Without treatment, diabetes can cause complications.

Some of these complications may have noticeable indicators, while others may not.

Complications can include:

  • health conditions affecting the feet
  • nerve damage
  • damaged blood vessels
  • protein in your urine
  • problems with pancreas functioning
  • kidney conditions
  • excessive urination
  • gastroparesis, leading to heartburn and nausea
  • increased risk of heart disease
  • higher risk of infections
  • cataracts and glaucoma
  • increased risk of stroke

If you may be experiencing symptoms of diabetes, consider making an appointment with a doctor and ask about diabetes screening.

You may have to make specific preparations if a doctor orders tests for diabetes, so it’s best to ask about these before your appointment.

For example, the doctor may want to perform a fasting blood sugar test, which requires you not to eat anything for 8 hours before your appointment.

It can also help to write down any symptoms you’re experiencing or recent life changes that you’ve gone through. Your doctor can use this information to help make a diagnosis if needed.

Sometimes, symptoms of diabetes may not be obvious, especially in the early stages. Knowing the possible symptoms of diabetes can prompt you to talk with a doctor, especially if the symptoms don’t resolve or if they get worse.

It’s a good idea to get your symptoms evaluated as soon as possible. That way, a doctor can rule out other causes and help you start treatment if necessary. Early diabetes treatment can help reduce side effects and damage to your body.

If you receive a diagnosis of diabetes, your doctor may connect you with a diabetes educator and dietitian. They can work with you to develop a diabetes management plan tailored to your individual needs.

A diabetes management plan typically includes:

  • nutritional guidelines
  • an exercise regimen
  • medications designed to regulate your blood sugar levels

Your doctor may also suggest regular blood sugar testing.

It may take some trial and error to settle on a treatment plan that works best for you.