Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often developing silently over time. However, your body may be sending subtle signals long before a formal diagnosis.
Recognising these early warning signs can be crucial in preventing or managing the onset of diabetes. From unexplained weight changes to persistent fatigue, your body has ways of alerting you to potential blood sugar imbalances.
Content creator Rav Malik, mentions some of the signs to look out for in his latest reel. “These 90 seconds could probably save a lot of people’s lives,” he says.
Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator says, “The indications highlighted in the video are like flashing yellow lights on the path to diabetes. They do not ensure a diagnosis, but they are significant markers that something is wrong. These symptoms are a solid reason to see a doctor, especially if you are at risk for diabetes. Remember, these symptoms might also indicate other illnesses, so a doctor’s diagnosis is essential.”
So, what are these signs?
Malhotra explains some of the signs and symptoms mentioned by Malik in his video, that might indicate that you are, as he says, “heading towards diabetes.”
*Everyone might not experience darkening of the neck (Acanthosis Nigricans), but it can be a good reason to get checked, especially if you have other risk factors.
*Stubborn fat might need a medical scan for accurate measurement. But, if you carry a lot of weight around your middle and have trouble losing it despite diet and exercise, it might be a sign to discuss your risk with your doctor.
*Skin tags are small, benign flaps of skin that can appear anywhere on the body. While they’re not dangerous, some studies suggest a possible link between having multiple skin tags and insulin resistance. However, more research is needed to confirm this connection.
*A thick neck can be caused by a variety of factors, including excess weight gain or fluid retention. While not a specific indicator of diabetes itself, a thickened neck, especially along with other risk factors or symptoms, might warrant a conversation with your doctor.
Some additional early physical signs or symptoms that indicate that you may be at risk
Diabetes disrupts how your body uses sugar (glucose) for energy, says Malhotra. So, the symptoms often point to this disruption. Some common signs are:
Increased thirst and urination: This is a classic combination. When your blood sugar levels rise, your kidneys work extra to remove the excess glucose, making you thirsty and having to use the restroom more frequently.
Excessive hunger: Even after eating, you may feel as if you have not touched food in days. This is because the sugar is not adequately absorbed by your cells, leaving them energy-starved.
Unexplained weight loss: This can be perplexing because weight loss can be beneficial! However, if you have diabetes, your body may be breaking down muscle for energy because it cannot use sugar efficiently.
Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can interfere with the fluids in your eyes, changing how light is focused on the retina. This can cause fuzzy vision, which is most noticeable when reading or looking at distance objects.
Slow healing wounds: Diabetes can affect circulation, making it harder for wounds to heal and increasing the risk of infection.
Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired is another sign your body isn’t getting the energy it needs from food.
Specific biomarkers or diagnostic tests help detect prediabetes or early-stage diabetes
Even before you experience the classic symptoms of diabetes, specific biomarkers and diagnostic tests can be your allies in detecting prediabetes or early-stage diabetes.