6 Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes signs and symptoms you need to watch out for. Shutterstock

Type 2 Diabetes can affect all people, regardless of age. Early symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes are often missed and you may not even know they have the condition. 1 in 3 people in the early stages of Type 2 Diabetes is not aware they have it. A common misconception is that you must appear clinically obese to have Type 2 Diabetes. Although the majority of people with Type 2 Diabetes have excess weight, they often aren’t obese. However, any excess weight, especially around the stomach, is a risk factor.

As we get older, we are also at higher risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes interferes with the body’s ability to metabolize carbohydrates for energy and leads to high levels of blood sugar. Chronically high blood sugar levels increase a person’s risk of developing serious health problems. Even if you don’t look “unhealthy” and feel okay, it is important to get your blood sugar tested if you have excess weight around the middle.