Diabetes: 9 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

9 Warning Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes You Shouldn’t Ignore

I’m Dr. Rahul Bhongir, and I want to talk to you about something that affects millions of people—Diabetes. Many people have diabetes and don’t even know it until complications arise. My goal with this article is to help you recognize the early symptoms so you can take action before it’s too late.

1. Feeling Thirsty All the Time

If you find yourself drinking more water than usual but still feeling thirsty, your body may be trying to tell you something. High blood sugar levels cause dehydration, making you feel constantly thirsty.

2. Frequent Urination

Are you making more trips to the bathroom, especially at night? When sugar builds up in the blood, your kidneys work overtime to filter it out, leading to frequent urination.

3. Unusual Vaginal Discharge & Itching

For women, a white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge along with itching could be a sign of a yeast infection, which is common in diabetes due to excess sugar feeding the yeast.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss Despite a Good Appetite

Losing weight without trying? If you're eating well but still shedding pounds, it could be an early sign of diabetes. When your body can’t use sugar for energy, it starts burning fat and muscle instead.

5. Dark Skin Rash Around the Neck

Have you noticed dark pigmented rash, velvety skin, around your neck or armpits? This condition, called Acanthosis Nigricans, is often a sign of insulin resistance and can indicate pre-diabetes or diabetes.

6. Constant Fatigue or Tiredness

Feeling exhausted or unusually tired no matter how much you rest? When your body can’t properly process sugar, your cells don’t get the energy they need, leaving you feeling drained.

7. Blurry Vision

High blood sugar levels can affect the lenses in your eyes, causing blurred vision. If left untreated, it could lead to serious eye problems, including blindness.

8. Increased Skin Tags

Have you noticed more tiny, soft growths on your neck or underarms? Skin tags can be a sign of insulin resistance, increasing your risk of developing diabetes.

9. Nausea, Vomiting, and Stomach Pain

If you experience these symptoms together, it could be a serious complication called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA occurs when your body breaks down fat too quickly, releasing dangerous acids into your blood. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

When to Seek Help

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications. At DPC Family Doctor, we’re here to help. A simple test can provide clarity and set you on the path to better health.

Take the first step today—help is just a click away!

Dr. Rahul Bhongir
Functional Medicine & Family Medicine

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please consult a healthcare provider.