Diabetes has become one of the most common lifestyle diseases in India, affecting over 77 million people as per the latest ICMR and IDF reports. Alarmingly, many people remain undiagnosed until complications begin to set in. Early detection is key to managing and reversing the condition. Here are 10 early signs of diabetes that Indians should watch out for:
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1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)
One of the earliest signs of diabetes is the frequent urge to urinate, especially at night. High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work overtime to filter and expel excess glucose, resulting in increased urination.
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2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)
With frequent urination comes dehydration, which makes you feel excessively thirsty. If you find yourself drinking more water than usual and still feeling dry-mouthed, it may be an early red flag.
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3. Unexplained Weight Loss
In Type 1 and some cases of Type 2 diabetes, the body starts burning fat and muscle for energy because it cannot use glucose properly. This leads to sudden and unexplained weight loss—even without changes in diet or exercise.
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4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)
Despite eating regularly or even more than usual, diabetics often feel hungry due to the inability of cells to absorb glucose effectively. This condition may also be paired with fatigue and irritability.
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5. Fatigue and Weakness
A persistent lack of energy is a common symptom. When cells are deprived of glucose, the body feels constantly tired—even with adequate rest.
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6. Slow Healing of Wounds
High blood sugar levels interfere with the body’s natural healing process. Minor cuts, scratches, or infections (especially on feet and hands) take longer to heal, making diabetics more prone to complications.
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7. Blurred Vision
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to swelling in the eye lenses, causing blurry vision. If left untreated, it can result in long-term damage or diabetic retinopathy.
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8. Dark Patches on Skin (Acanthosis Nigricans)
Indians, especially those with a family history of diabetes, often develop dark, velvety skin patches around the neck, armpits, or groin. This is a common early sign of insulin resistance.
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9. Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet
Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) can begin even before a formal diagnosis. Watch out for persistent tingling, burning, or numbness in extremities, especially feet.
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10. Recurrent Infections (Especially UTI or Yeast Infections)
Diabetics are more prone to infections due to high sugar levels in bodily fluids. Women may notice frequent urinary tract or vaginal yeast infections, while men might suffer from skin infections.
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Why Indians Are More at Risk
- Genetic predisposition to insulin resistance
- High carbohydrate diets and sedentary lifestyles
- Lack of early screening, especially in rural areas
- Increasing obesity rates, particularly abdominal obesity
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When to See a Doctor
If you or a loved one are experiencing multiple symptoms from the list above, consult a physician and request a:
- Fasting blood sugar test
- HbA1c test
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
Early detection can help reverse prediabetes and manage full-blown diabetes more effectively with lifestyle and medical interventions.
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Tips for Prevention
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Reduce sugar and refined carb intake
- Include fiber-rich and low-glycemic foods
- Exercise at least 30 minutes daily
- Monitor blood sugar regularly if you’re high-risk
Conclusion:
Diabetes is a silent but serious disease. Being aware of these early symptoms and seeking timely intervention can make all the difference. For India, where the condition is rapidly growing, awareness is the first line of defense.