12 Early Signs Of Diabetes: Symptoms, Risk Factors, And Prevention Tips - Beritaja
By: Albert Michael - Sunday, 28 September 2025 19:50:39
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 422 million people live with the disease, yet millions remain undiagnosed. Recognizing the signs of diabetes early can change the course of the illness and even save lives.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or properly use insulin, the hormone responsible for helping glucose enter cells for energy.
Types of diabetes
- Type 1 diabetes: an autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells.
- Type 2 diabetes: the body still makes insulin but becomes resistant to its effects.
- Gestational diabetes: develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery.
A Cleveland Clinic case study highlights that many patients only learn they have diabetes after complications develop, underscoring the importance of early awareness.
Early Warning Indicators
Maria, a 38-year-old mother of two, noticed excessive thirst and frequent nighttime urination. At first, she blamed stress. Weeks later, she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Common early warning indicators include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight changes
- Persistent fatigue
- Blurred vision
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
John, a college athlete, ignored frequent infections and slow-healing wounds, thinking they were due to training. In reality, they were signs of high blood sugar.
Other symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Increased hunger despite eating
- Irritability or mood swings
- Dry mouth and itchy skin
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) warns that delaying care often results in more severe complications within a few years.
Type 1 Diabetes
- Often develops suddenly in children and young adults.
- Example: 14-year-old Sarah was diagnosed after rapid weight loss and dehydration.
Type 2 Diabetes (H3)
- Typically appears gradually in adults but is rising among younger populations.
- Example: Sarah’s uncle developed Type 2 in his 50s due to obesity and inactivity.
Risk Factors
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), risk factors include:
- Family history of diabetes
- Overweight or obesity
- Age over 45
- History of gestational diabetes
- Sedentary lifestyle
An ADA study found adults with obesity and a family history of diabetes were four times more likely to develop Type 2.
Diagnosis and Testing
Doctors may recommend:
Common Tests
- Fasting blood sugar test
- HbA1c test (measuring average blood sugar over three months)
- Oral glucose tolerance test
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises routine screening at age 45 or earlier if risk factors are present.
When to See a Doctor
Elena fainted at work before learning she had diabetes. “I wish I had gone sooner,” she said.
Schedule a check-up if you experience:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight changes
- Persistent fatigue
Diabtes Complications
If left untreated, diabetes silently damages vital organs, leading to:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage
- Vision loss
One bus driver ignored foot numbness for years. By the time he sought care, nerve damage (neuropathy) had progressed, making walking difficult.
Long-Term Effects
Beyond immediate complications, long-term effects include:
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- Decline in quality of life
- High treatment costs
- Reduced productivity
The WHO identifies diabetes as a leading cause of disability and early death worldwide.
Blood Sugar Monitoring
After diagnosis, monitoring blood sugar becomes essential.
Methods of Monitoring
- Home glucometers
- Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems
- Tracking food and activity
Carlos, diagnosed at 29, said: “Once I started using a CGM, I felt more in control. I could see how food, exercise, and stress affected my blood sugar in real time.”
Prevention and Lifestyle
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) found that healthy lifestyle changes reduced the risk of Type 2 diabetes by 58%.
Steps include:
- Eating a balanced diet (Mediterranean or DASH diet)
- Getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly
- Managing stress and sleep
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Living with and Managing Diabetes
Managing diabetes is a lifelong journey that involves:
- Medication or insulin therapy
- Daily blood sugar monitoring
- Support from dietitians and diabetes educators
- Family and community support
Carlos adds: “At first, I felt overwhelmed. But with education and support, I now feel healthier than before my diagnosis.”
Last Thoughts
Recognizing the signs of diabetes early, seeking timely medical advice, and making lifestyle changes can prevent serious complications. Personal stories, case studies, and expert guidance all point to the same truth: don’t ignore the warning signs.
FAQ
What are the first signs of diabetes in women?
Women may experience frequent urinary tract infections, yeast infections, excessive thirst, fatigue, or blurred vision. Hormonal changes can sometimes mask these symptoms, so regular check-ups are important.
Can diabetes be reversed?
Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed. However, Type 2 diabetes can sometimes go into remission through weight loss, healthy eating, and consistent physical activity. According to the American Diabetes Association, remission does not mean “cured,” but blood sugar may return to non-diabetic levels.
What foods help prevent diabetes?
A diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, lean proteins, and healthy fats (such as olive oil or avocado) can lower the risk. The Mediterranean and DASH diets are both highly recommended.
How often should I get tested for diabetes?
The NIH recommends testing every 3 years starting at age 45. If you have risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history of diabetes, your doctor may suggest testing earlier and more frequently.
Can children develop diabetes?
Yes. Type 1 diabetes often develops in children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes, once considered an adult condition, is now rising in children due to obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
Sources (Wikipedia)
- Health Resources
- Diabetes mellitus — Wikipedia
- Type 1 diabetes — Wikipedia
- Type 2 diabetes — Wikipedia
- Gestational diabetes — Wikipedia
- Diabetes management — Wikipedia
- Blood glucose monitoring — Wikipedia
- Complications of diabetes mellitus — Wikipedia
- Epidemiology of diabetes mellitus — Wikipedia
