Type 2 diabetes symptoms: what to know

Common presentations include increased thirst, passing urine more often, tiredness, blurred vision, unexplained weight change, slow-healing cuts and repeated infections such as thrush. Tingling or reduced feeling in the feet can reflect nerve involvement. A symptom alone has many possible causes and cannot confirm diabetes.

Some people notice symptoms only when glucose has been raised for a while, while others feel well. Obesity and prediabetes can be associated with a higher chance of type 2 diabetes, but neither proves that diabetes is present.

Arrange a primary-care assessment if thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision or ongoing tiredness is new or persistent. The clinician can review your symptoms, medicines and family history and arrange appropriate blood tests. Do not rely on a home symptom checklist to diagnose the condition.

Look after cuts promptly, inspect your feet, drink normally and keep a note of when symptoms occur. If diabetes is confirmed, your care plan may include food choices, activity, medicines and checks for kidney, eye, nerve and blood-vessel health.

Seek urgent medical help if symptoms become severe or rapidly worsen, especially vomiting, dehydration, deep or difficult breathing, marked drowsiness or confusion. Sudden facial drooping, speech trouble or weakness on one side needs emergency assessment because it may indicate a stroke. A spreading, painful, hot skin infection also needs prompt care.

Ask which blood tests are appropriate, whether another condition or medicine could explain your symptoms, and how quickly results will be available. Ask how to care for your feet and what changes should prompt urgent help if diabetes is diagnosed.