Millions of Americans are living with diabetes, and many don’t even know they have it.
Diabetes occurs when your body has difficulty regulating blood sugar, also known as glucose. Over time, high blood sugar can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, vision problems and nerve damage. The good news is that early detection and proper management can make a significant difference.
Know the Warning Signs
One of the challenges with diabetes is that symptoms can develop gradually and may be easy to overlook. In fact, some people with type 2 diabetes experience no noticeable symptoms at all.
Common warning signs include:
- Frequent urination: Needing to use the bathroom more often than usual, especially at night.
- Increased thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty, even when drinking plenty of fluids.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without making changes to your diet or activity level.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy.
- Blurry vision: Experiencing changes in your eyesight as blood sugar levels fluctuate.
- Slow-healing wounds: Noticing that cuts or sores take longer than usual to heal.
- Frequent infections: Experiencing recurring infections, including urinary tract or yeast infections.
Are You at Risk?
Even if you feel healthy, certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. These include:
- Being 35 years of age or older
- Having a family history of type 2 diabetes
- Being overweight or physically inactive
- Having high blood pressure
- Having a history of gestational diabetes
- Being African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino or Pacific Islander
- Having previously been diagnosed with prediabetes
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. It often has no obvious symptoms, making routine screening especially important. Without lifestyle changes, people with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Early Detection Makes a Difference
You don’t have to wait until symptoms appear to take action. A simple blood test can help determine whether your blood sugar is within a healthy range or if you’re at risk for diabetes.
If you have risk factors or are experiencing symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider about whether diabetes screening is right for you. Early detection provides an opportunity to make changes that can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of complications.
We’re Here to Help
At MMH, our diabetes education team helps patients gain the knowledge and tools they need to confidently manage diabetes. From understanding blood sugar levels to making healthier food choices, our team provides support to help patients take charge of their health. Contact us by calling 812.933.5000.
