Health experts have raised concern over the rising cases of undiagnosed diabetes, warning that early signs of the condition are often mild and easily overlooked by many individuals.
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by persistently high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce sufficient insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces.
Medical professionals note that in its early stages, the condition may present with subtle symptoms that many people ignore or attribute to stress or fatigue.
Common early warning signs include frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, persistent fatigue, blurred vision, and unexplained weight loss.
According to health practitioners, failure to recognise these symptoms early can allow the condition to progress, leading to more noticeable and severe complications.
“As the disease advances, patients may begin to experience slow-healing wounds, frequent infections, dry and itchy skin, as well as darkened patches of skin, especially around the neck and armpits,” a medical expert said.
They added that advanced diabetes could result in nerve damage, causing numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet, severe vision impairment, and extreme weakness.
“In critical situations, untreated diabetes may lead to life-threatening conditions such as diabetic coma,” the expert warned.
The report further distinguishes between the two major types of diabetes, noting that Type 1 diabetes tends to develop rapidly, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a distinctive fruity-smelling breath.
In contrast, Type 2 diabetes develops gradually and may remain undetected for several years, making routine medical check-ups essential for early detection.
Health experts emphasise that early diagnosis and proper management are crucial in preventing serious complications associated with the disease, including heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage.
They urged the public to seek medical attention promptly if any of the symptoms are observed, stressing that lifestyle modifications and appropriate treatment can significantly improve quality of life and reduce health risks.
