The most common symptoms across most types of diabetes include:
- unusual thirst
- frequent urination
- weight change (gain or loss)
- extreme fatigue or lack of energy
- blurred vision
- frequent or recurring infections
- cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
- tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- trouble getting or maintaining an erection.
People living with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes may not feel any symptoms at all.
When to get medical help
People with type 1 diabetes may develop a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious diabetes complication that happens when there is not enough insulin to help move blood sugar into your cells to be used for energy. DKA can happen when you catch a cold or flu, if you’re missing doses of insulin or not taking enough.
Symptoms of DKA include:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very weak
- Peeing more than usual
- Feeling short of breath (like you can’t get enough air)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- High blood sugar
If type 2 diabetes goes unnoticed or undiagnosed, a condition called hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) could happen. It develops when blood sugars are extremely high or from an illness or infection, severe dehydration or after having a heart attack.
Symptoms of HHS include:
- Feeling very thirsty and dehydrated
- Feeling confused or unable to think clearly
- Peeing more often for several days
- Blurry vision or loss of vision
- Feeling weak or can’t move one side of your body
If you think you are experiencing DKA or HHS, please get medical help immediately!