Many young people may dismiss this as “just being busy” or “not drinking enough water,” but if it persists for weeks, it could be a warning sign.
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Fatigue is another symptom that is easy to ignore. Everyone feels tired from school, work, or sports, but **diabetes-related fatigue is different**. It’s persistent and doesn’t improve with rest or sleep.
Why does diabetes cause fatigue?
* When insulin isn’t working properly (type 2) or is missing (type 1), glucose can’t enter cells efficiently.
* The body lacks energy at the cellular level, even if blood sugar is high.
If you notice yourself feeling unusually drained, even after a full night’s sleep, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
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## 3. Unexplained Weight Changes
For younger individuals, **sudden weight loss or, in some cases, unexpected weight gain** can be an early signal.
* In type 1 diabetes, the body begins breaking down fat and muscle for energy because glucose isn’t entering cells, leading to rapid weight loss.
* In type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance can cause the body to store excess glucose as fat, sometimes leading to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
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4. Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can cause fluid to be pulled from the lenses of your eyes, which affects your ability to focus. This can lead to **blurred or fluctuating vision**.
Young people may attribute blurry vision to screen time, eye strain, or needing new glasses. But if the symptom comes with other signs—like thirst, fatigue, or frequent urination—it could indicate elevated blood sugar levels.
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## 5. Slow-Healing Cuts and Frequent Infections
High blood sugar can **interfere with the body’s natural healing processes** and immune system, making infections more likely and slowing recovery.
Young individuals may dismiss this as “clumsiness” or an unlucky streak, but persistent infections or slow-healing wounds deserve medical attention.Continue reading…
