Diabetes affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar (glucose) properly. Recognizing early signs of type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to quicker diagnosis and help avoid complications.
The two primary forms are type 1 and type 2, with type 2 being more widespread. Both disrupt insulin production or function—the hormone that processes blood sugar and keeps it at safe levels. When glucose levels rise too high, it can harm cells and trigger health problems.
According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2018, 26.8 million Americans had diabetes, including nearly 1.6 million with type 1. Additionally, around 7.3 million people had undiagnosed diabetes that year. In 2015, roughly 88 million had prediabetes—elevated blood sugar signaling diabetes risk.
Spotting early symptoms allows for timely care. Early treatment helps prevent long-term damage.
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms for both types include:
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger during or after meals
- Weight loss despite eating more
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts or bruises
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in hands/feet
- Acanthosis nigricans—darkened, velvety skin patches on the neck, armpits, or groin
Age and health can influence how symptoms appear.
Type 1 Diabetes in Infants & Young Children
More common in kids than type 2. Caregivers might notice:
- Extreme tiredness
- Intense hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vision changes
- Yeast infections (like persistent diaper rash)
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Unusual irritability or mood swings
Type 1 Diabetes in Adults
Though typically starting in childhood, it can develop at any age. Watch for:
- Sudden weight loss
- Severe thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurry vision
- Recurring yeast infections
- Slow wound healing
Type 2 Diabetes
Many discover it during routine checkups. Others seek help for symptoms or complications like:
- Skin infections/itching
- Vision changes
- Foot/hand numbness, pain, or weakness
- Poor circulation or foot ulcers
- Constant thirst/dry mouth
- Fruity breath odor
- Kidney issues
Avoiding Complications
Early diagnosis and blood sugar management are key. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) happens when treatment falls short or isn’t followed, leading to:
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
A life-threatening emergency where ketones (fat-breakdown byproducts) build up. Early signs:
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme dry mouth
- High blood sugar/ketones in urine
Later symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Flushed/dry skin
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Trouble breathing
- Confusion or difficulty focusing
- Fruity breath
Seek emergency care immediately.
Long-Term Complications
Without proper treatment, over time, diabetes can cause:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Vision loss
- Limb amputations
Early treatment for either type helps prevent these.
Causes
Type 1 and type 2 have different origins.
Type 1 Diabetes
The immune system attacks insulin-producing pancreas cells, leading to insulin deficiency. Genetics and environmental factors (like viruses) may play a role. Lifelong insulin therapy is required.
Type 2 Diabetes
The body doesn’t produce enough insulin or resists its effects (insulin resistance), causing blood sugar buildup. Though more common in older adults, it can affect younger people.
Type 2 Risk Factors
Key risks include:
- Age (especially over 35)
- Obesity or excess weight
- Inactivity
- Excess belly fat
- Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy)
- High blood pressure
- Family history
- Higher prevalence in Black and Native American communities
Diagnosis & Treatment
Doctors diagnose diabetes through symptoms and blood tests (repeated if no symptoms).
- Type 1: Daily insulin via injections/pumps.
- Type 2: Lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes insulin.
Sticking to the treatment plan is crucial. Consult a doctor if facing challenges or side effects.
Summary
Early symptom recognition leads to prompt diagnosis and treatment, preventing severe complications. If you suspect diabetes, see a doctor.