Recognize signs and symptoms of diabetes before it is too late
The earliest signs and symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, constant hunger and frequent urination.
Signs and symptoms of diabetes type 1 include:
- Sudden weight loss for no reason
- Rapid, hard breathing
- Sudden vision changes
- Weakness and fatigue
- Drowsiness or exhaustion
- Fruity odor of breath
- Blurred vision
- Irritability
- Headache
The smell of acetone on the patient's breath, any altered state of 
consciousness or arousal or Kussmaul breathing (a rapid, deep breathing) are dangerous signs of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Signs and symptoms of diabetes type 2 include:
- Tiredness and weakness
- Slow-healing sores or cuts.
- Itching of the skin (usually around the vaginal or groin area).
- Frequent yeast infections.
- Recent weight gain or weight loss
- Velvety dark skin changes of the neck, armpit and groin, called acanthosis nigricans.
- Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet.
- Blurred vision.
- Impotency.
- Red, swollen and tender gums.
Complications may develop in many people with diabetes especially if early signs and symptoms of diabetes are not recognized or it is not controlled well. So it is sometimes seen that many people first become aware that they have diabetes (acts as a silent killer) when they develop one of its life-threatening complications.
- Blindness
- Kidney Disease
- Nerve Disease and Amputations
- Heart Disease and Stroke (cerebral vascular accident)
