Diabetes often develops quietly, with subtle symptoms that go unnoticed until complications arise. Fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination, and slow-healing wounds may seem minor but could indicate elevated blood sugar levels. Many people live with undiagnosed diabetes for years, putting their health at risk. Recognizing the early warning signs can lead to timely diagnosis and better outcomes.
Fruity-Smelling Breath: A Warning Sign of High Blood Sugar
A fruity or sweet-smelling breath can be an early sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of high blood sugar levels. When the body lacks insulin, it starts breaking down fat for energy, producing ketones. High levels of ketones cause a distinctive fruity odor on the breath, often compared to acetone or ripe fruit.
DKA is more common in undiagnosed type 1 diabetes but can also occur in severe type 2 diabetes cases. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and extreme fatigue. If you notice this unusual breath odor, especially alongside excessive thirst or frequent urination, seek medical attention immediately, as untreated DKA can become life-threatening.
Unexplained Weight Loss: A Red Flag for Diabetes
Losing weight without changing diet or exercise habits may seem like a positive thing, but sudden, unexplained weight loss can be an early warning sign of diabetes. When the body cannot use glucose for energy due to insulin resistance or deficiency, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel, leading to rapid weight loss.
This symptom is particularly common in type 1 diabetes, where insulin production stops entirely. However, individuals with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes may also experience noticeable weight changes. If you’re losing weight without trying, along with increased hunger, excessive thirst, or fatigue, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked to rule out diabetes.
Recurrent Infections and Slow-Healing Wounds
High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and heal wounds efficiently. People with undiagnosed diabetes often experience frequent bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections, especially in warm, moist areas of the body such as the skin, mouth, and urinary tract.
Even small cuts or bruises may take significantly longer to heal due to poor circulation and nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar. Slow wound healing increases the risk of serious infections and complications, particularly in the feet and lower legs. If you notice frequent infections or sores that don’t heal properly, it’s essential to consult a doctor for diabetes screening.
Lightheadedness: Blood Sugar Spikes and Drops
Frequent lightheadedness or dizziness can be a sign of fluctuating blood sugar levels. When blood sugar spikes too high, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to dizziness. On the other hand, if blood sugar drops too low (hypoglycemia), it can cause weakness, confusion, sweating, and fainting.
For people with undiagnosed diabetes, these episodes may come and go, often after eating sugary foods or skipping meals. Consistently experiencing dizziness, especially alongside blurred vision, fatigue, or heart palpitations, could indicate that your body is struggling to regulate glucose levels. Monitoring symptoms and getting a blood sugar test can help determine if diabetes is the underlying cause.
Itchy Skin: A Lesser-Known Diabetes Symptom
Persistent itchy skin, especially on the hands, feet, arms, or legs, can be an overlooked symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can lead to dry skin, poor circulation, and nerve damage, which may contribute to constant irritation and itching.
In some cases, diabetes-related fungal infections can also cause red, itchy rashes, particularly in skin folds or warm, damp areas. Conditions like diabetic dermopathy and acanthosis nigricans—which cause dark patches or scaly skin—may also develop due to insulin resistance. If you have unexplained itching along with other diabetes symptoms, a blood sugar check can help determine whether diabetes is the root cause.
Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination
One of the most common early signs of diabetes is excessive thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria). High blood sugar forces the kidneys to work harder to filter and remove excess glucose, leading to more urine production. As a result, people with undiagnosed diabetes may feel the need to urinate constantly, even waking up multiple times at night.
This frequent loss of fluids leads to dehydration, triggering extreme thirst. No matter how much water is consumed, the cycle continues until blood sugar levels are brought under control. If you’re always thirsty and making more trips to the bathroom than usual, it could be a sign of diabetes, and getting tested is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Take Action Before Symptoms Worsen
Diabetes can go undiagnosed for years, leading to serious complications if left untreated. Recognizing the silent warning signs—such as unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, excessive thirst, and fruity-smelling breath—can help detect the condition early.
If you notice any of these symptoms, a simple blood sugar test can provide clarity. Early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent long-term health issues and improve overall well-being.