Early Signs of Diabetes: What to Watch For and When to Get Screened - Dr Srinath Aswathiah

Diabetes is often called a “silent” disease because many of its early symptoms can go unnoticed. Early detection is key to managing diabetes and preventing complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage.

Understanding the early signs of diabetes and when to get screened can help ensure timely diagnosis and effective management.

Types Of Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body struggles to regulate blood glucose levels. There are two main types:

1. Type 1 Diabetes – This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
2. Type 2 Diabetes – The more common form, it develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It is more commonly diagnosed in adults and is linked to lifestyle factors.

Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, can also increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Common Early Signs of Diabetes

Recognizing the early symptoms of diabetes is crucial for early intervention. These symptoms may seem mild but should not be ignored, particularly if you have risk factors such as obesity or a family history of diabetes.

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Excess glucose in the bloodstream forces the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb it. When the kidneys cannot keep up, glucose is excreted in the urine, leading to frequent urination, particularly at night.

2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): As frequent urination leads to dehydration, individuals with diabetes may feel excessively thirsty and may drink more water than usual in an attempt to stay hydrated.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss: Although people with diabetes may experience increased hunger, they may also lose weight unexpectedly. This is especially common in Type 1 diabetes, where the body breaks down fat and muscle for energy due to insufficient insulin.

4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): Since glucose isn’t entering the body’s cells properly, the body starts to crave more food as it seeks energy sources, leading to excessive hunger despite eating.

5. Fatigue and Weakness: High blood sugar levels make it difficult for the body to use glucose for energy, resulting in fatigue and feelings of weakness, even after rest.

6. Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in the eyes to swell, leading to blurred vision. This is often temporary but can worsen over time, resulting in serious eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy if left unchecked.

7. Slow Healing Wounds and Frequent Infections: High blood sugar impairs circulation and weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to heal wounds. As a result, individuals with diabetes are more prone to infections and experience slower recovery.

8. Numbness or Tingling in Hands and Feet: High blood sugar can lead to nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This often manifests as numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, particularly when blood sugar levels are poorly controlled over time.

When to Get Screened for Diabetes

Screening is an important step in the early detection of diabetes, especially for those who have risk factors. Here are key recommendations for when you should consider getting tested:

• People with Risk Factors: If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, or a family history of diabetes, screening should begin around age 35. Early screening can help identify abnormal blood glucose levels before they turn into full-blown diabetes.
• Aged 45 and Older: For everyone over the age of 45, it’s recommended to undergo screening at least every three years, even if no symptoms are present.
• Women with Gestational Diabetes History: Women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Annual screenings are recommended after pregnancy.
• People with Pre-Diabetes: If a blood test shows that you have pre-diabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes, annual screenings are advised to monitor the condition and prevent progression.
• Symptoms of Diabetes: If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is essential to see a healthcare provider for screening. Early diagnosis can help prevent the complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Managing and Preventing Diabetes Progression

If diagnosed with diabetes, early intervention is crucial. The good news is that Type 2 diabetes can often be managed, and in its early stages, it may even be reversed with lifestyle changes.

A healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management are essential components of controlling blood sugar levels. For Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is necessary to manage the condition.

Regular monitoring of blood sugar, adopting healthier habits, and consulting with diabetologist are important steps in diabetes management. With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, individuals with diabetes can live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the early signs of diabetes and understanding when to get screened are key to managing the condition and avoiding complications. If you have any symptoms or risk factors, don’t wait—get screened and consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.

Early detection, combined with lifestyle changes and appropriate treatment, can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.