woman testing blood sugar

The Most Common Symptoms of Diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes are numerous and varied. While there is a difference in how type 1 and type 2 diabetes take form, the symptoms below pertain to both forms of the disease unless noted otherwise.

It's easy to start a conversation with your doctor. Begin by taking a health risk assessment (HRA). Then, discuss your results with your primary care doctor.

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Here are the warning signs to look out for if you think you have diabetes:

Food and Energy

When you eat, your body converts food to glucose which is usually absorbed by your cells for energy. Your cells use the hormone insulin to absorb that energy. If you have diabetes, your cells may resist insulin and reduce the amount of energy they can produce. You may feel sluggish or extremely fatigued as a result.

You may also feel more hungry, even if you’ve already eaten. Since your cells aren’t able to create energy from glucose, your body turns to other sources for energy. It may begin burning muscle and fat, causing unexpected weight loss.

The keto diet is becoming a popular nutrition plan, and there are claims that it may be beneficial for those with diabetes. If you suspect you have diabetes, consult your physician before making any major changes to your diet, including going on the keto diet.

Drinks and Liquids

Diabetes also affects how your body retains water. Your kidneys are responsible for reabsorbing glucose, but high blood pressure may overwhelm your kidney. Your body may make more urine to compensate, which causes frequent trips to the bathroom.

As you urinate more frequently, you may become very thirsty. Drinking more water in turn causes more frequent urination, so you may find yourself spending much more time in the restroom. These rapidly fluctuating fluid levels in your body may also affect your vision. Your eyes’ lenses may swell, causing blurry vision.

Other Effects on the Body

Diabetes symptoms can span the entire body. High levels of glucose in the blood can affect your body’s ability to heal. Cuts and bruises may be slow to heal, and you may have high blood pressure, especially if you have type 2 diabetes. Those with type 2 diabetes may also experience tingling, pain or numbness in their hands or feet.

Both men and women may also experience yeast infections. Yeast is a living organism that seeks out glucose, which is in ample supply in those with diabetes. If you are experiencing frequent yeast infections between your fingers and toes or around your genitals, it may be a symptom of diabetes.

Diabetes Education Sessions-FREE

DEAP logoIf you’d like to learn more about managing your diabetes, or just need a refresher, attend our FREE education sessions. Both in-person and virtual sessions are offered in 2024. During virtual sessions, participants will be able to see the instructor, ask questions and see the presentation.

To register for the sessions, please call 317-626-2452 or 765-776-8888 or email diabetesclass@eCommunity.com to connect with a diabetes educator who can help you get set up and assist with any technical questions.

See the flyer below for all all upcoming dates and locations.

2024 Diabetes Education Sessions

Virtual Classes

  • Tuesdays in April @ 11am - 12pm: 9, 16, 23, 30
  • Tuesdays in May @ 11am - 12pm: 7, 14, 21, 28

Community Hospital East

1500 N. Ritter Avenue, PRIIDE Conference Center

  • April 9 & 11 @ 1 - 3:30pm
  • May 7 @ 12:30-4:30pm

Community Heart and Vascular Hospital

8075 N. Shadeland Ave, Basement Conference Room A&B

  • April 16 & 18 @ 1 - 3:30pm
  • May 14 & 16 @ 5:30 - 8pm

Community Hospital South

1402 E. County Line Rd, Education Center

  • May 9 @ 12:30 - 4:30pm
  • November 7 @ 12:30 - 4:30pm