Early detection and treatment of diabetes can avoid serious complications later on. But many people do not realize they have diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, for example, there may be no symptoms. Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in children or young adults when the body does not produce insulin and patients need to manage the condition through insulin therapy. In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn't produce enough insulin or cells do not recognize the insulin.
Increased Urination and Thirst
Excess sugar starts to build up in the blood with diabetes, the Mayo Clinic explains. The kidneys have a tough time filtering and absorbing the increase in sugar, much of which is expelled through the urine. This leads to more urinating and results in dehydration. So the diabetic drinks more, which continues the cycle of more urination.
Fatigue and Irritability
Dehydration may play a role in causing a run-down feeling. The body is not able to function properly with the unusual urination and the lack of ability to process sugar for energy because of diabetes. The feeling of exhaustion may also cause a diabetic to become irritable.
Weight Loss and Hunger
Calories are lost because of a loss of sugar through the increase in urination. The sugar from food does not reach cells in the body as it normally does, so the diabetic has constant hunger. Even though the person may be eating more, there is continued weight loss.
Blurry Vision
Vision problems may occur because high levels of blood sugar begin to pull fluid from the eyes, affecting the eyes' ability to focus. People with type 2 diabetes are often at risk for loss of vision.
Frequent Infections
Diabetes may interfere with the body's immune system, making it easier for infections to take place. It may also take longer for cuts, bruises and sores to heal. There may be recurring infections in the skin, gums or bladder. The gums may turn red, swollen or tender because of the body's inability to fight germs. Frequent infections are usually a symptom of type 2 diabetes.
Tingling and Numbness
Diabetics may experience a loss of sensation in the hands and the feet because the excess sugar in the blood may be causing nerve damage. This results in tingling and numbness. There may also be burning pain in the arms and legs as well as in the hands and feet. This is another symptom that affects people with type 2 diabetes.
