Could You Have Diabetes and Not Know It?

November is American Diabetes Month, an important reminder that understanding your risk could make a difference in your long-term health.

When you think about diabetes, you might picture symptoms like excessive thirst or frequent trips to the bathroom. But here's something many people don't realize: Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually, sometimes without noticeable symptoms.

In fact, millions of Americans are living with prediabetes, and many don't know it. That's why understanding your risk factors and knowing when to get tested are so important.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses blood sugar, also called glucose. Glucose is an important source of energy, but when your body doesn't use insulin effectively or can't produce enough of it, sugar can build up in your bloodstream.

Over time, elevated blood sugar can contribute to serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and vision loss.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition, Type 2 diabetes often develops gradually and is influenced by a combination of genetic, health, and lifestyle factors.

The Warning Signs You Might Be Missing

While some people experience noticeable symptoms, others may have Type 2 diabetes for years without realizing it.

Common symptoms can include:

• Increased thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty, even after drinking water.
• Frequent urination: Needing to use the bathroom more often, particularly at night.
• Unexplained fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy despite getting enough rest.
• Blurred vision: Experiencing changes in eyesight.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without intentionally changing your diet or activity level.
• Frequent infections: Experiencing recurring urinary tract infections or yeast infections.

These symptoms can have many causes, so experiencing one doesn't necessarily mean you have diabetes. However, new or persistent symptoms are worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

And remember: Having no symptoms doesn't mean you're in the clear.

Who Is at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes can affect people of all ages, but certain factors increase your likelihood of developing the condition.

You may be at higher risk if you:

• Are age 45 or older.
• Have a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes.
• Have overweight or obesity.
• Are physically active less than three times per week.
• Have high blood pressure or a history of prediabetes.
• Have experienced gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
• Have certain other health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Risk also varies across racial and ethnic groups due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors.

Having one or more risk factors doesn't mean you'll develop diabetes. It does mean that a conversation with your healthcare provider about screening may be worthwhile.

What About Prediabetes?

Before developing Type 2 diabetes, many people experience a condition called prediabetes.

Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 2 in 5 American adults have prediabetes, and approximately 8 in 10 don't know they have it.

The encouraging news? Prediabetes doesn't always progress to Type 2 diabetes.

Making sustainable changes to your eating habits, physical activity, and other aspects of your health can help lower blood sugar and prevent or delay the development of Type 2 diabetes.

How Do You Know If You Should Get Tested?

Because prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms, a blood test is the only reliable way to know where you stand.

Your healthcare provider may recommend:

A1C Test: Measures your average blood sugar over approximately three months. You typically don't need to fast beforehand.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures your blood sugar after you've gone without eating for at least eight hours.

Glucose Tolerance Test: Measures how your body processes glucose over a period of time.

Your provider can help determine which test is appropriate based on your age, medical history, and individual risk factors.

If your results indicate prediabetes or diabetes, identifying the condition early gives you an opportunity to take action.

Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference

Whether you're looking to reduce your risk or have recently been diagnosed with prediabetes, you don't have to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight.

Start with manageable changes:

• Move more often. Walking, swimming, cycling, or other activities you enjoy can help your body use blood sugar more effectively.
• Build balanced meals. Include vegetables, fiber-rich carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Prioritize sleep. Consistent, quality sleep supports your overall health and blood sugar regulation.
• Keep up with routine care. Regular checkups can help identify changes in your health before complications develop.
• Ask for support. Your healthcare team can help you create realistic goals that fit your needs.

Small, consistent habits can have a meaningful impact over time.

Take the First Step Toward Better Health

This American Diabetes Month, consider taking a few minutes to learn about your personal risk for Type 2 diabetes.

If you haven't had your blood sugar checked recently, or if you recognize any of the symptoms or risk factors discussed above, talk with your healthcare provider about whether screening is right for you.

For individuals living with diabetes, Thorek Memorial Hospital's Diabetes Education & Wellness Center offers education and support to help patients manage their condition. Services include blood glucose monitoring instruction, individualized meal planning, and guidance for setting realistic health goals.

Understanding your health is the first step toward taking care of it.

Learn More About Thorek's Diabetes Education & Wellness Center