Many people with T2D have obesity, but not all. This is a major risk factor for the condition. One of the hallmarks of T2D is high blood sugar, which can affect how you feel in several ways.

Frequent or increased urination

Elevated glucose levels force fluids from your cells. This increases the amount of fluid delivered to the kidneys. This makes you need to urinate more. It may also lead to dehydration.

Excessive thirst

As your tissues become dehydrated, you will become thirsty.

Increased thirst is another common diabetes symptom. The more you urinate, the more you need to drink, and vice versa.

Fatigue

Feeling worn down is another common symptom of diabetes. Glucose is normally one of the body’s main sources of energy. When cells cannot absorb sugar, you can become fatigued or feel exhausted.

Blurred vision

In the short term, high glucose levels can cause a swelling of the lens in the eye. This leads to blurry vision. Getting your blood sugar under control can help correct vision problems. If blood sugar levels remain high for a long time, other eye problems can occur.

Recurring infections and sores

Elevated glucose levels may make it harder for your body to heal. That means injuries like cuts and sores stay open longer, and it makes them more susceptible to infection.

Yes, you can experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). These can be dangerous if not treated and could quickly become medical emergencies requiring immediate care.

For people with type 2 diabetes, those on glucose-lowering medications or insulin are at the most risk for low blood sugar.

Low blood sugar symptoms that you may notice include:

• shaking
• dizziness
• hunger
• headache
• sweating
• trouble thinking
• irritability or moodiness
• rapid heartbeat

It is important to check with your doctor if you are having any symptoms of type 2 diabetes.

While you can slow or even put T2D into a state of remission where you don’t need medications or experience any symptoms, you can’t reverse this condition to make it completely go away.

For those diagnosed with type 2, if left untreated or not effectively managed, it can lead to serious health concerns and long-term damage to your body.

You might adjust your eating habits, revise your physical activity routine, monitor your weight management, and monitor the effects of medications you take for blood sugar levels or other health conditions.

Some people may be able to stop taking T2D meds if they’ve already been taking them.

Part of your diabetes management plan will also include regular foot and eye exams.

Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes may include extreme thirst and increased urination. However, some people don’t experience any symptoms, especially at first.

Long-term effects of higher blood sugars can damage parts of your body, including the heart, eyes, nerves, and other organs.

That is why it is best to recognize the symptoms early on. Then, you can work with your healthcare team to develop a diabetes care plan to manage the condition and help relieve — even reverse — some of those symptoms.