Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses glucose (sugar). It often develops slowly over time, and many people do not realize they have it in the early stages.
Recognizing the warning signs of type 2 diabetes can help you get tested sooner and begin treatment to protect your long-term health.
Your body uses insulin to move sugar from your bloodstream into your cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, your body does not use insulin properly. This causes sugar to build up in your blood.
Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves and organs throughout the body.
Type 2 diabetes often develops gradually. Symptoms may be mild at first or easy to overlook.
The most common early symptoms include:
Needing to urinate more frequently, especially at night, can be an early sign. When blood sugar is high, your kidneys work harder to remove extra sugar through urine.
Frequent urination can cause dehydration, which makes you feel very thirsty.
You may feel hungry even after eating because your body is not able to use glucose effectively for energy.
When your cells cannot get enough energy, you may feel tired, weak or fatigued.
High blood sugar can temporarily change the shape of the lens in your eye, leading to blurry vision.
High blood sugar can affect circulation, weaken your immune system and slow your body’s ability to heal.
Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves. This may cause tingling, burning or numbness.
Some people lose weight even though they are eating normally.
A dark, velvety patch of skin on the back of your neck, under your arms or in other skin folds may be a sign of insulin resistance.
People with type 2 diabetes may develop infections more easily, including:
Yes. Many people have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Because type 2 diabetes develops slowly, you may have high blood sugar for months or even years before symptoms appear. That is why regular screening is important, especially if you have risk factors.
Learn more about risk factors and causes of type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes typically develops gradually. Early symptoms may be subtle and easy to ignore. For some people, symptoms do not become obvious until blood sugar levels are significantly elevated.
If you notice ongoing changes such as frequent urination, excessive thirst or unexplained fatigue, it is important to speak with your health care provider.
If blood sugar levels rise very high, symptoms may become more severe.
These can include:
These symptoms require urgent medical attention.
Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you have:
Severe high blood sugar can be life threatening if not treated quickly.
If type 2 diabetes is not well managed, it can lead to serious health problems.
Possible complications include:
Following your diabetes care plan can greatly reduce the risk of complications.
If you notice symptoms of type 2 diabetes, the next step is testing.
Your health care provider may order:
If you are diagnosed, your provider will work with you to create a personalized plan to manage your blood sugar and reduce your risk of complications.
At Banner Health, our diabetes care team offers:
If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your blood sugar, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a meaningful difference in your long-term health.
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