Diabetes, characterized by unstable blood sugar levels, is a prevalent health condition. A 2022 report released by the CDC estimates that 130 million people in the country are already affected or are at the border line. Governments are spending extensively on educating individuals and families on preventing and dealing with the problem. Keeping this in mind, we have listed the common early signs of diabetes and some lifestyle changes to follow for better management.

What is diabetes?
The condition is typically classified as type 1 or type 2. In type 1 diabetes, the body produces little or no insulin, the hormone that helps convert the glucose from the bloodstream into energy.

Early symptoms of diabetes
The following are a few signs people with the condition usually experience. Note that one might exhibit more than one of these at a time. It is advisable to keep the symptoms in mind and consult a doctor if they persist:

Frequent urination
A constant urge to urinate even without changes in water intake is one of the telltale signs of diabetes.

Constant thirst
Frequent urination can cause a loss of fluids and dehydration. As a result, the body asks for more water to regain the lost reserves. This excessive thirst is known as polydipsia. Those having this symptom may also have a dry mouth.

Unexplained fatigue
Blood sugar is the primary source of energy for our body’s cells. But if levels are high, the body works harder to flush out excess sugar, using more energy and leading to fatigue. Lack of sleep due to frequent urination can add to the problem.

Changes in skin color
Dark patches in the folds of the neck, groin, or underarm can result from insulin resistance. It is among the lesser-known symptoms of diabetes.

Vision problems
The tiny blood vessels in the eyes may inflate during blood sugar spikes and get temporarily damaged, leading to blurry vision. The problem usually resolves on its own when glucose levels pick up. Hence, those experiencing blurry vision should visit a doctor and get tested.

Increased hunger
As the body works harder to maintain blood sugar levels, it uses more glucose. And since the food we eat is the primary source of glucose, one is likely to feel hungry quickly once the existing reserves in the blood cells dry up.

Sudden and unexplained energy loss
Despite proper food intake, energy loss may occur as the body cannot use blood glucose optimally. When sugar levels drop, one may become shaky and have no strength. Low blood sugar is also known as hypoglycemia, and it can lead to severe complications if unaddressed.

Delayed healing of bruises and wounds
Since high sugar can damage blood vessels, it is difficult for them to transport wound-healing cells to the injury site. Hence, delayed healing could be a symptom of diabetes. The immune system also gets affected due to the condition, increasing the risk of catching infections.

Risk factors for diabetes
Certain individuals and groups have greater chances of getting the disease. The most common risk factors include:

Family history
A person’s chances of getting affected increase if a parent or sibling has the condition. Such individuals are advised to look for the symptoms of diabetes and go for routine blood sugar tests.

Age
Though the disease can affect anyone, the type 1 form develops in children, teens, or young adults. Adult men and women over 45 are at a higher risk for type 2.

Physically inactivity
People who live a sedentary lifestyle and those who do not engage in physical activity like a sport or exercise are at a higher risk.

Certain other health conditions
Those with hypertension or high blood pressure may experience insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels can also have the same result.

Lifestyle changes for managing diabetes
Doctors recommend treatment options depending upon the type of the condition, the patient’s age, and other factors. In addition, these diabetes remedies and lifestyle changes are suggested:

Eating the right foods
One must follow a nutrition plan low in carbs and rich in fiber, protein, and nutrients. The best options include green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, and whole grains. Sugary and processed foods are best avoided. Further, it is essential to space out meals evenly.

Physical activity
Physical activity can help lower blood sugar naturally. Research says that it can also help increase insulin sensitivity in some cases. Patients can indulge in light-to-moderate exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming.