5 Symptoms of Diabetes You Shouldn't Ignore

Checking your blood sugar levels on a regular basis can prevent and sometimes even help you treat diabetes before it gets out of control. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to know the common symptoms of diabetes, as well as any conditions that could be aggravated by having diabetes, such as high blood pressure or heart disease. Here are five diabetes symptoms you should never ignore

1) Unexplained weight loss

Weight loss isn’t always intentional. Many people gain weight as they age, and it can be hard to tell whether or not you’re one of them—or if you have diabetes. If your weight drops by more than 5 percent in six months without a corresponding change in diet or exercise, ask your doctor about diabetes. Common symptoms of Type 2 diabetes include unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, fatigue, weakness and blurred vision.

2) Being overly hungry

This can be a sign of uncontrolled blood sugar levels, meaning you’re at risk for type 2 diabetes. So if you frequently find yourself hungry after meals or snacks, visit your doctor and ask for a blood test to make sure your insulin levels are normal. If they’re not, it may be time to switch to a healthy diet and exercise program that will help you manage your weight long-term—and potentially avoid developing type 2 diabetes altogether.

3) Increased thirst

There are many reasons why you might have an increased thirst and/or a frequent need to urinate. But if you’re experiencing either of these symptoms, it’s important to check your blood sugar level. With type 1 diabetes, you may be dehydrated because your body is flushing water out in order to balance your sugar levels in a process called glucosuria.

4) Frequent urination

One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is frequent urination, which can often be mistaken for a bladder infection. If you have to get up at night to pee multiple times, and then notice that your urine is darker than usual, it’s time to see your doctor. Being thirsty: Unexplained dehydration is also a possible symptom and another sign that something might be wrong with your blood sugar levels.

5) Tingling in the hands or feet

While you may think that tingling or numbness in your extremities is a sign of stress, it could actually be a symptom of diabetes. When your blood sugar levels are elevated and unbalanced, nerve damage can occur. This is why it’s so important to monitor your blood sugar on a regular basis. Make sure you’re also drinking plenty of water—lack of hydration can cause nerve damage as well!