Symptoms and Risk Factors

Symptoms of Diabetes

Many symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes are similar. With type 1 diabetes, symptoms occur more abruptly and are quickly noticed. Individuals with type 2 diabetes may have symptoms, such as feeling tired and thirsty for several years. Because the symptoms may be absent, mild or occur very gradually, these individuals often do not notify their doctors. In this case, the diabetes is discovered during a routine physical or when the person is in to see the doctor for another reason.

Symptoms of diabetes include:

• Feeling tired
• Dry, itchy skin
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Need to urinate frequently
• Weight changes
• Increased hunger
• Increased thirst
• Nausea or vomiting
• Frequent infections
• Slow-healing cuts or bruises
• Blurred vision
• Problems with sexual function
• Mood changes

Risk Factors

The causes of diabetes are not well known, but both heredity and environment appear to play a role in its development. The American Diabetes Association recommends that testing be done in individuals who:

• Are 45 years of age or older
• Are overweight
• Have diabetes in their family
• Are members of high risk ethnic population (Native American, Hispanic, African American, Asian)
• Had gestational diabetes or had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth
• Have high blood pressure
• Have abnormal blood fat (cholesterol, triglycerides)

What can you do to prevent diabetes?

There are several steps people can take to reduce their risk for diabetes, the most beneficial being:

• Lose weight if you are overweight
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a diet high in fruits and low in animal fat

Find out if you are at risk for diabetes by taking our Diabetes Risk Assessment.