Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms do not seem very unusual. Though symptoms of type 1 diabetes typically develop over a short period of time, symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop at a slower pace. Sometimes people have only mild symptoms or do not experience symptoms at all.

It is not uncommon for a person to have type 2 diabetes for years before being diagnosed. For this reason, it is important for people at risk to be aware of the symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination (polyuria) and dehydration
• Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
• Extreme hunger (polyphagia)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased fatigue
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Dry, itchy skin
• Slow-healing sores
• Red, swollen or tender gums or gingivitis

• Frequent infections, including urinary tract infections and yeast infections
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness
• Irritability

Symptoms vary from person to person. People experiencing any of these symptoms are encouraged to see a physician.