9 Sneaky Signs of Diabetes — Don’t Ignore Them

Diabetes is a common health condition, but it doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. Many people have diabetes for years before they realize something is wrong. Of the 38.4 million adults with diabetes, 8.7 million don’t know they have it.

That’s why it’s essential to recognize the subtle signs that may indicate you or a loved one has this disease. At Keven Tagdiri, M.D. in Encinitas, California, we help patients spot the early signs of diabetes so they can get the care they need before complications develop. 

Let’s walk through the less obvious symptoms you should never ignore.

1. Feeling tired all the time

If you constantly feel tired even after a full night of sleep, it could be more than just stress or a busy schedule. High blood sugar levels make it harder for your body’s cells to use glucose (sugar) for energy. Without that energy, you can feel worn out or sluggish throughout the day.

2. Increased thirst and more frequent urination

Do you feel thirsty no matter how much water you drink? Do you make frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night? 

When blood sugar levels are too high, your kidneys work extra hard to eliminate the excess sugar through urine. That pulls more water from your body, making you feel dehydrated and increasing your need to pee.

3. Blurry vision

High blood sugar can make the lens in your eye swell, affecting your ability to see clearly. Blurry vision may come and go or gradually worsen over time. Many people dismiss blurry vision as a result of eye strain or aging, but it can be a diabetes early warning sign.

4. Unexplained weight loss

Shedding pounds without trying may sound great, but it’s a red flag if it happens quickly or you lose a lot of weight. When your body can’t use sugar properly, it may break down fat and muscle for energy. That can lead to sudden, unhealthy weight loss, especially in people with Type 1 diabetes.

5. Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections

If your cuts, scrapes, or bruises seem to take forever to heal, or you’re constantly dealing with infections (especially skin or urinary tract infections), diabetes could be a factor. High blood sugar levels weaken your immune system and slow your body’s natural healing process.

6. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Tingling, burning, or numbness in your hands, fingers, feet, or toes could indicate diabetic peripheral neuropathy — nerve damage caused by diabetes. It usually develops gradually and may be worse at night. 

Untreated diabetic peripheral neuropathy can lead to severe complications, including foot ulcers and infections.

7. Dark patches of skin

Look out for dark, velvety patches of skin, especially around your neck, armpits, or groin. This condition, known as acanthosis nigricans, may signify your body is becoming resistant to insulin (the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels).

8. Gum disease or bad breath

People with diabetes tend to develop gum disease. High blood sugar makes it easier for bacteria to grow in your mouth, leading to swollen gums, bleeding when you brush, and/or persistent bad breath. If your dentist flags concerns, it’s worth visiting us for a blood sugar test.

9. Mood changes and trouble concentrating

Diabetes can also affect your mind, causing mood swings, depression, irritability, or problems with focus and memory. These problems can occur when your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, impacting brain function and emotional balance.

Early detection matters

Catching diabetes early makes a big difference. Starting treatment sooner lowers your risk of serious problems like heart disease, vision loss, kidney failure, and nerve damage. Many early signs of diabetes are reversible with lifestyle changes, medications, or both.

We offer routine screenings, blood sugar tests, and personalized care plans for patients with diabetes and those at risk of developing it. Whether you have symptoms or just want to stay ahead of your health, we’re here to help.

If you recognize any of these sneaky signs of diabetes in yourself or a loved one, schedule a check-up with our team. A simple blood test can give you the answers you need.

Contact Keven Tagdiri, M.D., by phone or online to start your journey toward better wellness.