Many people live with type 2 diabetes and are unaware of it. This is often because the symptoms can be subtle and easily missed. Recognizing the signs is the first step in getting diagnosed and managing your health.
Type 2 diabetes symptoms can manifest in various ways, and it’s important to be aware of them. Common symptoms include:
- Increased urination: Needing to pee more frequently than usual, especially at night.
- Persistent thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty and drinking more fluids than normal.
- Unexplained fatigue: Experiencing excessive tiredness and lack of energy.
- Unintentional weight loss: Losing weight without actively trying to do so.
- Genital itching or thrush: Recurring itching around the penis or vagina, or frequent episodes of thrush.
- Slow wound healing: Cuts and bruises taking longer than usual to heal.
- Blurred vision: Experiencing changes in vision, such as blurriness.
It’s also crucial to understand your risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. You are at a higher risk if you:
- Are over 40 years old: The risk increases with age, particularly after 40. This threshold is lowered to 25 years for individuals of Asian, Black African, or Black Caribbean descent due to higher risk at a younger age.
- Have a family history of diabetes: Having a close relative, such as a parent, sibling, with diabetes significantly increases your risk.
- Are overweight or obese: Excess weight and obesity are major risk factors for type 2 diabetes.
- Are physically inactive: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to insulin resistance and increases diabetes risk.
- Are of certain ethnic backgrounds: People of Asian, Black African, or Black Caribbean descent have a higher predisposition to type 2 diabetes.
If you are concerned about your risk, resources like the Diabetes UK Know Your Risk tool can be helpful. This tool assesses your personal risk based on factors like ethnicity, age, weight, and family history, and provides personalized advice.
Non-Urgent Advice: When to See a Doctor
It’s advisable to consult a General Practitioner (GP) if:
- You experience any of the symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes.
- You are concerned that you might be at an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Diagnosing diabetes requires a blood test. Your GP may conduct this test at their surgery, or you might be referred to a local health center or hospital for the blood work.
The importance of early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes cannot be overstated. Early intervention is key to managing the condition effectively and reducing the likelihood of developing further health complications. Taking proactive steps to understand your symptoms and risk factors is vital for your long-term health.
Page last reviewed: 22 December 2023
Next review due: 22 December 2026
