Warning Signs of Diabetes

Warning Signs of Diabetes
A Collaboration between the Jordan Bennett Weiss Fund and the City of Newton Health Department

JBW Fund – PO Box 590223 Newton Centre MA 02459 – JBWfund@aol.com

Familiarize yourself with the warning signs / symptoms of diabetes. Sometimes the symptoms are very obvious, and other times they are not. Early detection and knowledge of the warning signs is your greatest weapon against the disease and its complications!*
TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS: These symptoms often occur suddenly and must receive immediate medical attention.
Excessive thirst
Frequent urination, sometimes exhibited by bedwetting
(in large quantities)
Sudden vision changes
High amounts of sugar in the blood and/or urine (A sweet, fruity odor may be
present in urine, on one’s breath/body.)
Extreme hunger (increased appetite)
Rapid or unexplained weight loss
Fatigue (weak and tired)
Irritability and mood changes
Drowsiness, lethargy
Nausea and/or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Rapid, hard breathing (heavy, labored)
Confusion, Stupor, Unconsciousness
TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: These symptoms occur gradually, however, they must receive immediate medical attention.
Blurred vision
Tingling or numbness in the legs, feet or fingers
Frequent infections of the skin
Recurring skin, gum or urinary tract infections
Darker patches of skin usually in neck folds
Itching of skin and/or genitals
Drowsiness
Slow healing of cuts and bruises
Any of the symptoms listed under type 1 diabetes
*Please note: Many of these symptoms can be related to illnesses that are not associated with diabetes, including the flu. Only a healthcare professional can provide appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments.