Some effects of diabetes may seem harmless or unrelated to the disease and the condition can go undiagnosed, according to the American Diabetes Association. Early detection of diabetes remains essential to avoid complications that make it harder to treat. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce insulin to regulate blood sugar. Some people with type 2 diabetes, which does not produce enough insulin, have no symptoms. Regular medical check-ups can result in early treatment.
Unusual Thirst
Excessive thirst occurs because sugar, or glucose, builds up in the blood and is expelled into the urine, the Mayo Clinic explains. The kidneys are unable to deal with too much sugar. Frequent urination follows and causes dehydration, leading to thirst.
Hunger
Calories become lost through frequent urination. Diabetes prevents the sugar from food reaching cells in the body, so a diabetic feels constant hunger, according to the Mayo Clinic. The loss of sugar can result in unexplained weight loss, even though the person experiences persistent hunger.
Fatigue
Diabetics become fatigued because they lose blood sugar that provides energy for the body. Dehydration and the inability of the body to function properly can bring on tiredness, the Mayo Clinic says.
Infections
Frequent infections occur with type 2 diabetes, the American Diabetes Association says. Sores may also prove slow to heal. Researchers are trying to understand the reason, but they believe high levels of blood sugar disrupts the body's healing process and immune system, the Mayo Clinic notes. Bladder and vaginal infections occur frequently in women with diabetes. The body can lose its ability to fight germs, increasing the risk of infections that cause serious dental problems. Red, swollen and tender gums, a major risk for tooth loss, may develop from the infections.
Tingling
Tingling sensations or numbness in the hands or feet may affect type 2 diabetics, the American Diabetes Association says. This occurs because of nerve damage from excess blood sugar, according to the Mayo Clinic. Burning pain in the arms, hands, legs and feet may occur.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision affects people with type 2 diabetes. Excess blood sugar drains fluid from the eye tissues, causing problems with focus. Diabetes can affect the retina in the back of the eye, resulting in loss of vision or blindness if not treated early.
Nausea
Nausea, vomiting or stomach pains may accompany some symptoms for people with type 1 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
